Bantama beat Amakom to win MTN Ashantifest Community Gala
The community of Bantama delivered an exhilarating performance to edge out favorites Amakom 3-2 in the final of the MTN Ashantifest Community Gala tournament, held last Sunday at the Otumfuo Park in Dichemso, Ashanti Region.
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The grand finale was a spectacle for soccer enthusiasts, who were treated to outstanding football by both sides in a five-goal thriller.
The match began with both teams displaying strong performances and missing several early chances. Bantama broke the deadlock in the 27th minute when attacker Nana Yaw struck brilliantly to give his side the lead.
However, the lead was short-lived as Amakom equalised through an own goal by Badu Kyeremanteng, who accidentally directed a rebound into his own net while attempting to clear.
Despite the setback, Bantama regained control and nearly restored their lead in the 40th minute when Emmanuel Sarpong's curling shot missed the post by inches.
After the halftime break, Bantama resumed their offensive, and in the 47th minute, they restored their lead with a close-range goal. Rashid Metal then extended Bantama's advantage to 3-1 with a brilliant strike in the 60th minute, providing a comfortable cushion.
Amakom fought back and managed to reduce the deficit in the 80th minute with a goal from Kwabena Boakye, giving them hope of an equaliser.
However, Bantama's solid defense, led by Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, thwarted Amakom's efforts to score again, and referee Juliet Appiah's final whistle signaled the end of the keenly contested match, sending Bantama's players and fans into wild celebrations.
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Bantama emerged victorious, taking home a giant trophy, a cash prize of GHC20,000, and gold medals. Amakom received silver medals and a cash prize of GHC10,000.
In the third-place match, defending champions Ejisu defeated new entrants Adoato 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Ejisu claimed bronze and GHC5000, while Adoato earned GHC3000 for their commendable debut performance.
Berekum Chelsea's Emmanuel Sarpong ended the tournament as the top scorer with five goals and was named the Best Player. Bantama's goalkeeper Kwadwo Nimako was awarded Best Goalkeeper, while Amakom's Kennedy Kofi Mensah was recognised as Best Defender. Nana Kwame 'La Liga' of Amakom was named the Most Promising Player of the tournament.
Senior Manager, Brands and Communication at MTN, Mr. Germain Nartey, praised the teams for their professionalism and competitiveness throughout the tournament.
"The level of competition has improved compared to last year, and we are happy to host a bigger tournament next year," he stated.
He emphasised MTN's commitment to sports development in the country, noting that Ashantifest is a way of giving back to society and engaging loyal customers within the region.