The stage is set for a thrilling climax to Ghana’s domestic football season as Dreams FC face Nations FC in the 2025/26 MTN FA Cup final at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra on Sunday.
Beyond the glittering trophy and prestige associated with Ghana’s oldest football competition, the final presents both clubs with an opportunity to define their seasons in contrasting but equally significant ways.
For Nations FC, the FA Cup journey has become a remarkable story of resilience, redemption and hope.
The Abrankese-based club suffered the disappointment of relegation from the Ghana Premier League after a difficult campaign that ended with 44 points. However, while their league season concluded in heartbreak, their impressive FA Cup run has reignited belief among the club and its supporters.
Now just one victory away from history, Nations FC have the chance to transform a painful campaign into one of the most memorable seasons in the club’s history.
A win on Sunday would hand Nations FC their first-ever MTN FA Cup title and secure qualification to the CAF Confederation Cup, offering an immediate return to continental football despite their domestic setback.
Their route to the final has been impressive. Nations FC opened their campaign with victory over Division One League side Ebony FC before eliminating former Premier League giants AshantiGold SC.
They followed that with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Swedru All Blacks and then displayed nerves of steel to edge out Berekum Chelsea on penalties in the quarter-finals.
In the semi-finals, Nations FC defeated Aduana FC in a tense encounter in Swedru to book a historic place in the final.
Throughout the competition, the side has shown defensive discipline and tactical maturity, conceding only two goals while scoring eight.
Much of their success has been inspired by influential winger Emmanuel Annor, whose pace, creativity and decisive contributions have made him one of the standout performers of this year’s tournament. Captain Razak Simpson has also played a vital leadership role, marshalling the defence with composure and determination.
Standing in their way, however, is a Dreams FC side continuing to establish itself as one of the fastest-rising clubs in Ghanaian football.
The “Still Believe” lads head into the final after another impressive Ghana Premier League campaign, securing a top-four finish. Unlike their opponents, Dreams FC are no strangers to the big stage.
The club lifted the MTN FA Cup in the 2022/23 season and will now be seeking a second title in three years.
Dreams FC reached the final after an entertaining 3-2 semi-final victory over Medeama SC in one of the competition’s most exciting matches this season.
Before that, they defeated Semper Fi 2-1, dispatched Asanska FC 2-0 and overcame Inter Allies on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the quarter-finals.
The side boasts several influential players capable of deciding the outcome of the final.
Midfielder Kevin Ahiable has been instrumental with his energy and creativity, while Suraj Seidu has consistently impressed with his attacking contributions throughout the campaign.
Veteran striker John Antwi is also expected to play a key role, bringing valuable experience and composure to a relatively youthful Dreams FC side.
Having featured in several high-pressure matches over the years, Antwi’s leadership and eye for goal could prove decisive on the grand stage.
Sunday’s showdown also continues the recent trend of the MTN FA Cup producing compelling stories and new champions.
Last season, Asante Kotoko defeated Golden Kick 2-1 at the same venue to lift the trophy, while Nsoatreman FC claimed a historic triumph the previous year after beating Bofoakwa Tano on penalties.
Dreams FC themselves enjoyed a memorable maiden success in 2022/23 with victory over King Faisal.
With both finalists carrying enormous motivation into the showdown, football fans can expect an intense and fiercely contested battle under the lights in Legon.
For Nations FC, it is an opportunity to complete a fairytale redemption story.
For Dreams FC, it is another chance to strengthen their growing reputation as one of Ghana’s emerging football forces.
Adding to the excitement, headline sponsors MTN Ghana are expected to provide entertainment, fan engagement activities and several “Yello Moments” to enhance the matchday experience as thousands of supporters troop to the University of Ghana Stadium for what promises to be a memorable football spectacle.
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