Accra: Konkonuru have once again written their name into the history of the OMJ SoccerFest, defeating debut finalists Tabankro 2-1 in a thrilling grand finale to secure a record third championship title.
According to Ghana Web, the fourth edition of the OMJ SoccerFest, themed 'From The Pitch To The People: Uniting To Build For Progress,' evolved into much more than a football tournament. Over three days, the newly constructed Ahwerase JHS School Park became the center of activity in Akuapem South, attracting more than 7,000 spectators, with daily attendance consistently exceeding 2,000.
The festival drew an impressive cross-section of society, including traditional authorities, government officials, clergy, political leaders, and football enthusiasts from across Akuapem South Municipality. Among the distinguished guests were the Akuapem Adonten Divisional Head and Chief of Aburi, HRM Otoobuor Djan Kwesi II; Nana Opare Kwaffo I, Adehyehene of Akuapem Ahwerase; Okyekyerekuro Kwame Sakyi, Abotakyihene; as well as eminent Akyeame, queen mothers, and sub-chiefs from both the Aburi and Ahwerase Traditional Councils.
Sixteen communities competed fiercely in the group stage before advancing to the knockout rounds. Group A produced Ahwerase and Peduase as quarter-finalists, while Konkonuru and Dumpong advanced from Group B. Berekusu and Pakro progressed from Group C, with Ahyiresu and Tabankro securing qualification from Group D.
After a series of highly competitive knockout fixtures, Konkonuru and tournament debutants Tabankro earned places in the final. Despite Tabankro's spirited display, Konkonuru's experience and clinical finishing proved decisive as they secured a 2-1 victory to reclaim the championship.
Outstanding individual performances were recognized during the closing ceremony. Joseph Quaicoe of Konkonuru was named Most Valuable Player (MVP), while Koomson Anthony, also from Konkonuru, emerged as the Top Scorer with five goals, becoming the first player to win the Golden Boot twice after previously claiming the award in 2024. Isaac Gyan of Konkonuru received the Golden Gloves honor for the second time, while Samuel Tornu from Pakro was named Discovery Player.
Winning teams and outstanding individuals received trophies, medals, cash prizes, plaques, citations, footballs, complete sets of jerseys, and other awards in recognition of their achievements. HRM Otoobuor Djan Kwesi II expressed admiration for the scale, organization, and professionalism of the festival, praising the OMJ Foundation for creating a platform that unites communities and inspires young people.
Host chief Nana Opare Kwaffo also expressed appreciation to the OMJ Foundation for selecting Ahwerase to host the fourth edition, noting the positive economic impact on the local community. He further urged participating communities to embrace peace, discipline, unity, and mutual respect, emphasizing the role of sports in fostering social cohesion and community development.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the OMJ Foundation, Osei Mensah Joseph (OMJ), expressed gratitude to all contributors to the event's success. He emphasized the festival's role in discovering and promoting football talent while using sports as a catalyst for sustainable community development.
The festival featured attractions such as the Akuapem All-Black Street Carnival and the Inter-Community Cooking Competition, which highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the communities involved. Ghanaian music duo Keche and other artists provided entertainment, further enhancing the festival's appeal.