The 2026 edition of the Nestlé Milo U13 Championship has successfully come to an end at the Sekondi Sports Stadium, delivering four days of thrilling action, emerging talent, and a strong reminder of Ghana’s rich football future.
Bringing together 16 basic schools from across all regions of the country, the tournament once again lived up to its billing as a premier grassroots football platform. From the group stages through to the knockout rounds, young players showcased impressive technical ability, discipline, and a hunger to succeed on a national stage.
The competition steadily built momentum, with intense group-stage battles setting up a dramatic knockout phase. The quarterfinals were particularly tense, with several matches decided by penalty shootouts, underlining how evenly matched the teams were. Schools like Wenchi Methodist Primary, Denchemousue R/C Primary, and Nkawkaw Salvation Army Primary School all held their nerve in crucial moments to book their places in the semifinals.
In the last four, the intensity only grew. Kwabenya Atomic M/A Basic School secured their place in the final after overcoming Denchemousue R/C Primary School on penalties, while Nkawkaw Salvation Army Primary School delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament, defeating Wenchi Methodist Primary School 4-0 to set up a highly anticipated final clash.
The grand finale did not disappoint. Nkawkaw Salvation Army Primary School capped off a remarkable campaign with a 2-0 victory over Kwabenya Atomic M/A Basic School to be crowned champions. Their performance in the final was a blend of composure, teamwork, and attacking efficiency, confirming their status as the best team in the tournament.
In the third-place playoff, Denchemousue R/C Primary School edged Wenchi Methodist Primary School 3-2 on penalties after a goalless draw, securing a deserved place on the podium.
Beyond the team success, individual brilliance also took center stage. James Tawiah of Nkawkaw Salvation Army Primary School emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, winning the goal king award with seven goals. His teammate, Kamal Assan, was named the best player of the tournament after consistently influencing games with his skill and creativity.
The final was graced by Ghanaian football legends Asamoah Gyan and Stephen Appiah, alongside Samuel Anim Addo, whose presence added prestige and inspiration to the occasion. Their support highlighted the importance of investing in youth development as the foundation for the country’s football future.
Off the pitch, organizers also expressed satisfaction with the success of the tournament. Myron Otto, Head of Beverages at Nestlé Ghana, praised the level of competition and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent through such initiatives. Asamoah Gyan also commended the quality of play, noting the potential of many of the young players on display.
Winning coach Prince Siaw paid tribute to his players for their discipline and determination throughout the competition, while goal king James Tawiah expressed his joy at helping his team lift the trophy and finishing as the top scorer.
As the curtain falls on the 2026 Milo U13 Championship, the tournament once again leaves behind a powerful legacy—one of opportunity, discovery, and hope. With talents like James Tawiah and Kamal Assan emerging, Ghana football can look ahead with renewed optimism, knowing that the next generation is already taking shape.
