East Legon Football Academy’s U-14 side triumphs at Dana Cup 2024

The East Legon Football Academy (ELFA) has made history by winning the 2024 Dana Cup in Hjørring, Denmark.

Competing in one of the world’s largest international youth football tournaments held from July 22-27, 2024, ELFA’s U-14 team clinched the prestigious Dana Cup trophy, marking a significant achievement for the academy, its players, and the country.

Founded in 2019 and based in Accra, ELFA has rapidly established itself as a powerhouse in youth football. The academy focuses on using football as a tool for youth empowerment, combining top-level training with academic support. Through partnerships such as the Emerge Project, the academy offers scholarships and mentorship, nurturing the talents of hundreds of young athletes.

A journey of growth

This year’s victory at the Dana Cup holds special significance, as it marks ELFA’s second consecutive participation in the prestigious tournament. The academy made a remarkable debut in 2023, and the experience left a lasting impact on both the players and coaches. Upon their return home, the team was met with a hero’s welcome at Kotoka International Airport, where sports enthusiasts, the media, and fans greeted them with overwhelming pride. This media spotlight set the stage for this year’s even greater achievement.

ELFA’s return to the Dana Cup in 2024 with their U-14 and U-17 teams demonstrated the academy’s commitment to competing at the highest levels. While both teams participated, it was the U-14 side that captured the title and brought the prestigious trophy home to Ghana.

“A dream come true”

Speaking after the victory, ELFA Founder and President Winston Yeboah Danso expressed immense pride in the team’s performance.

He said: "This victory is a dream come true. These young athletes have shown what’s possible when you combine passion, discipline, and determination. To stand on the international stage and lift the Dana Cup trophy is a testament to their hard work and the support from everyone involved with ELFA. We’re incredibly proud of our boys, and this is just the beginning of more success to come."

The U-14 team’s coach, Robert McKenzie, also reflected on the team’s remarkable journey.

He said: "From the first day of training, we knew these boys had something special. Their ability to play as a unit, support each other on and off the field, and stay focused is what made the difference. Winning the Dana Cup is a massive achievement, but more than anything, I’m proud of their development as individuals. They’re future leaders, both on the pitch and in life."

A team effort

The triumph in Denmark was made possible by the tireless efforts of the players. 

Team captain Chief Kwasi Ayem shared his thoughts on the experience, stating: "Winning the Dana Cup has been a dream for all of us. Playing against teams from all over the world and coming out on top feels amazing. We want to thank our coaches, our teammates, and most of all, our families for believing in us."

Another player, Kimani Ohene-Kwapong, who scored a crucial goal in the final match, added: "This tournament taught us so much, not just about football but about working together and staying strong no matter the challenges. I will never forget this moment."

Road to success

The Dana Cup 2024 was an extraordinary event, featuring 50 nations, 1,018 teams, and over 20,000 participants. ELFA’s U-14 team fought their way through a series of competitive matches, displaying skill, determination, and teamwork. Their final victory earned them recognition not only as tournament champions but also as ambassadors of Ghanaian football on a global stage.

Beyond the athletic achievement, the journey to Denmark was supported by the entire ELFA community, including parents who stood by the team every step of the way. Winston Yeboah Danso took the opportunity to acknowledge their unwavering support: "The parents have been incredible throughout this journey. Their encouragement, trust, and sacrifices have been vital in shaping these young athletes. We are grateful to every parent for believing in our vision and supporting the boys."

Looking ahead

With this victory, ELFA has cemented its reputation as one of Ghana’s leading football academies. After just five years of operation, the academy is now rated as the best football academy in the country. The support from patrons, parents, and partners like Dana Cup, FC Copenhagen, and the Fafali Organisation has been instrumental in the academy’s rapid growth.

ELFA’s success goes beyond football. As a not-for-profit organisation, the academy is committed to fostering holistic development by combining sports with education. The academy has created over 20 coaching jobs, including internships for university students from institutions like the University of Ghana and Ashesi University.

A call to the public

As the academy looks to the future, it is open to welcoming more young talents who aspire to excel in both football and academics. Parents interested in enrolling their children in East Legon Football Academy are encouraged to apply.

"This victory is not just for the boys but for every young person in Ghana who dreams of playing football. We invite parents and guardians to bring their children to ELFA, where we will nurture their talents and provide them with opportunities to grow, both on and off the field," Winston said.

As ELFA celebrates this monumental win, they are already preparing for the next challenge. The academy’s long-term goal is to continue participating in the Dana Cup and other international competitions, giving young Ghanaians the platform to shine on the global stage.