The mining town of Tarkwa surpassed all expectations this weekend as it played host to the semifinals of the 2024/25 MTN FA Cup, delivering an unforgettable football experience marked by color, passion, and energy from the stands.
Two days of thrilling football, Tarkwa proved to be the perfect setting for the penultimate stage of Ghanas prestigious domestic cup competition. Fans from across the country, loyal club supporters and neutral football lovers alike, turned up in impressive numbers to cheer on the four semifinalists, creating a carnival-like atmosphere at the Tarkwa and Aboso Stadium.
The decision by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to stage the semifinals in Tarkwa has been widely praised. The town embraced the opportunity with open arms, and the enthusiasm shown by fans on both days was a testament to the regions deep-rooted football culture.
Saturday saw Division One side Golden Kick FC pull off a stunning 3-1 victory over Accra rivals Attram De Visser in the first semifinal. The crowd was lively and responsive, setting the tone for what would become a memorable football weekend.
But it was Sunday that truly stole the show, as the presence of Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko sent excitement levels through the roof. The stadium was filled almost to capacity, with supporters decked in red and white arriving in droves to back their team in a crunch clash against Berekum Chelsea.
The match itself was a tense and tactical affair. Berekum Chelsea impressed early with their organized play and attacking flair, spearheaded by Stephen Amankona. However, they were made to pay for missed chances, and with ten minutes remaining, Albert Amoah rose to meet a cross and power home a decisive header, securing a 1-0 win for Kotoko and sending their supporters into raptures.
The back-to-back matches were not just a showcase of footballing talent but also a celebration of community spirit, local pride, and the unifying power of the beautiful game. Tarkwas successful hosting has sparked conversation about the towns potential to serve as a venue for future high-profile matches, both domestically and possibly on the continental stage.
With Asante Kotoko and Golden Kick FC now set to face off in the MTN FA Cup final at the University of Ghana Stadium on June 15, attention shifts to Accra, but the echoes of the weekend in Tarkwa will remain long in the memories of fans and organizers alike.
The Ghana Football Association and the FA Cup Committees bold venue choice has paid dividends, and Tarkwa’s passionate display may just have cemented its place on the map as one of Ghanas emerging football hubs.
