The 2026 KGL Foundation Inter-Regional U17 Colts Championship began at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Sunday October 4, with KGL Foundation Programmes Manager Nii Sarpei conducting the ceremonial kick-off.
Sarpei was joined for the opening ceremony by Football Association Executive Council member Samuel Aboabire and Committee member Michael Fiaduse as the competition brought together some of Ghana’s most promising young footballers.
Defending champions Ashanti Region endured a difficult start to their title defence, losing 4-1 to GFA Elite Academy side BIG Boss in their Group A opener.
Ashanti were unable to contain an energetic BIG Boss team, who delivered an impressive performance at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence and made an early statement in the tournament.
Brong Ahafo also opened their campaign with victory, beating Upper West Region 2-0.
Volta Region secured their place among the winners after overcoming Upper East Region 5-3 on penalties. The match had finished 2-2 in regulation time following an entertaining contest.
Western Region recorded the most convincing result of the opening day, defeating Eastern Region 4-0 in a commanding display.
Prempeh College, another GFA Elite Academy representative, began their campaign with a 2-0 win against Northern Region.
Greater Accra completed the list of winners after edging Central Region 1-0 in the final match of an eventful opening schedule.
The championship is sponsored by the KGL Foundation and forms part of the Ghana Football Association’s Talent Development Scheme (TDS).
The scheme is designed to identify, develop and nurture emerging football talent throughout the country. The tournament gives young players the opportunity to display their technical ability, tactical understanding and potential while competing against leading youth prospects from across Ghana.
The competition includes standout U17 Colts players selected by Ghana’s 10 Regional Football Associations, as well as two GFA Elite Academies representing BIG Boss and Prempeh College.
