The Northern Region U15 side etched their name into history on Sunday morning after defeating Ashanti Region 4-2 on penalties to lift the Elite Boys Colts Championship trophy at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence. In a pulsating final that lived up to its billing, Northern Region held their nerve when it mattered most, overcoming the highly-fancied Ashanti Region in dramatic fashion.

The match began on a cagey note, with both teams cautious in possession and determined not to concede early. Ashanti Region, boasting the tournament’s most prolific attack, pressed high up the pitch, while Northern Region showed resilience and tactical discipline to hold them off. After an intense, end-to-end opening half, the game remained goalless at the break, leaving fans anticipating a fiery second period.

The breakthrough finally arrived in spectacular style courtesy of Shamsudeen Sulemana, whose individual brilliance lit up the contest. Picking the ball on the left wing, Sulemana dazzled past his marker, twisted past the Ashanti centre-backs, and calmly slotted home at the far post to send the Northern bench and supporters into wild celebrations. It was a goal worthy of a final, showcasing the kind of talent the championship was designed to unearth.

Just when Northern Region thought they had the title secured, late drama struck. Ashanti Region piled on the pressure, and in the dying moments, Thomas Amakwaah was brought down in the box. The referee pointed to the spot, and Nathaniel Owusu coolly converted the penalty to restore parity, setting up a tense finish. At full time, the scoreboard read 1-1, forcing the game into the lottery of penalties.

In the shootout, Northern Region displayed nerves of steel, converting four of their spot-kicks with precision. Ashanti Region, however, faltered under pressure, missing twice as the Northern goalkeeper turned hero with decisive saves. The final whistle confirmed a 4-2 penalty triumph, sparking jubilant celebrations from the Northern Region players, technical team, and fans.

With this victory, Northern Region not only secured bragging rights but also demonstrated the depth of footballing talent emerging from the north of Ghana. Their journey, which began with an opening-day defeat, ended in glory, underscoring their resilience and fighting spirit. For Ashanti Region, who dominated throughout the tournament, it was a heartbreaking conclusion, but their exploits cemented their place as one of the country’s brightest youth football hubs.

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