Nations FC defeated Dreams FC 5-4 on penalties to win the 2025/26 MTN FA Cup after the final ended 1-1 following regulation time and extra time at the University of Ghana Stadium over the weekend.
The keenly contested encounter produced an entertaining spectacle, with Nations FC emerging victorious in the penalty shoot-out to claim the prestigious trophy, a cash prize of GH₵80,000 and an additional GH₵100,000 to support their preparations for continental football.
The victory not only handed Nations FC the coveted trophy but also secured a place in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup, offering a silver lining to a season that ended with the club’s relegation from the Ghana Premier League.
The match sprang to life in the first half, with Nations FC taking the lead in the 31st minute through a close-range header from Joseph Effah.
Dreams FC responded in the dying minutes of the half when Abdul Razak Salifu rose highest to head home the equaliser in the 47th minute, scoring his sixth goal of the competition.
The tempo of the game dropped somewhat in the second half as both sides adopted a more cautious approach in an effort to avoid conceding another goal.
The best opportunity of the half fell to Nations FC’s Brandon Antwi Sarpong, who, despite an outstanding performance, was unable to find the back of the net and restore his side’s lead.
As the match wore on, both coaches introduced fresh legs in search of a winner, but neither side could break the deadlock.
The game remained level at 1-1 after 90 minutes and continued into extra time, where clear-cut chances were few and far between as play was largely concentrated in midfield.
The contest was ultimately decided by penalties, with Nations FC converting five of their six spot-kicks. Michael Abrokwa was the only Nations FC player to miss from the spot.
For Dreams FC, the usually reliable Suraj Seidu and Chris Yaovi failed to convert their penalties, handing the trophy to Nations FC.
Although Coach Frimpong Manso’s side will not feature in the Ghana Premier League next season, they can take pride in ending a challenging campaign with major silverware.
Brandon Antwi Sarpong was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the final following his Man of the Match performance and impressive displays throughout the competition.
Nations FC captain Razak Simpson proudly lifted the giant trophy alongside his teammates, sparking jubilant celebrations that continued long into the night and bringing a fitting end to a remarkable MTN FA Cup journey.
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