Ghana's East Legon Football Academy win 2024 U-14 Dana Cup

East Legon Football Academy (ELFA) has made history with a sensational performance at the 2024 Dana Cup in Hjørring, Denmark from 22-27 July 2024.

Competing in one of the world’s largest international youth football tournaments, the U14 side of ELFA clinched the coveted Dana Cup trophy, marking a proud moment for the academy, its players, and the entire nation of Ghana.

Founded in 2019 and based in Accra, Ghana, ELFA has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in youth football. With a focus on using football as a tool for youth empowerment, the academy combines top-level training with academic support, offering scholarships and mentorship through partnerships such as the Emerge Project. This holistic approach has nurtured the talents of hundreds of young athletes.

This year’s victory at the Dana Cup holds special significance, as it marks ELFA’s second consecutive participation in the prestigious tournament.

The academy first participated in 2023, when their teams made a remarkable debut, and the experience left a lasting impact on both the players and the coaches. The 2023 tournament was their first taste of international competition, and they returned home to a hero’s welcome at Kotoka International Airport, where sports enthusiasts, the media, and fans greeted them with overwhelming pride. The media spotlight that followed set the stage for this year’s even greater achievement.

ELFA’s return to the Dana Cup in 2024 with their U14, and U17 sides demonstrated the academy’s commitment to competing at the highest levels. While both the U14 and U17 teams participated in the tournament, it was the U14 team that captured the title and brought the prestigious trophy home to Ghana.

Speaking after the victory, ELFA Founder and President, Winston Yeboah Danso, expressed his immense pride in the team’s performance:

“This victory is a dream come true. These young athletes have shown what’s possible when you combine passion, discipline, and determination. To stand on the international stage and lift the Dana Cup trophy is a testament to their hard work and the support from everyone involved with ELFA. We’re incredibly proud of our boys, and this is just the beginning of more success to come.”

The U14 team’s Coach, Robert McKenzie, also reflected on the team’s remarkable journey:

“From the first day of training, we knew these boys had something special. Their ability to play as a unit, support each other on and off the field, and stay focused is what made the difference. Winning the Dana Cup is a massive achievement, but more than anything, I’m proud of their development as individuals. They’re future leaders, both on the pitch and in life.”

The triumph in Denmark would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the players. When asked about the experience, team captain Chief Kwasi Ayem shared:

“Winning the Dana Cup has been a dream for all of us. Playing against teams from all over the world and coming out on top feels amazing. We want to thank our coaches, our teammates, and most of all, our families for believing in us.”

Another player, Kimani Ohene-Kwapong, who scored a crucial goal in the final match, added:

“This tournament taught us so much, not just about football but about working together and staying strong no matter the challenges. I will never forget this moment.”

The Dana Cup 2024 was an extraordinary event, hosting 50 nations, 1,018 teams, and over 20,000 participants. ELFA’s U14 team fought their way through a series of competitive matches, displaying skill, determination, and teamwork. Their final victory earned them recognition not only as tournament champions but also as ambassadors of Ghanaian football on a global stage.

Beyond the athletic achievement, the journey to Denmark was supported by the entire ELFA community, including the parents who stood by the team every step of the way. Winston Yeboah Danso took the opportunity to acknowledge their unwavering support:

“The parents have been incredible throughout this journey. Their encouragement, trust, and sacrifices have been vital in shaping these young athletes. We are grateful to every parent for believing in our vision and supporting the boys.”

With this victory, ELFA has cemented its reputation as one of Ghana’s leading football academies. After just five years of operation, the academy is now rated as the best football academy in the country. The support from patrons, parents, and partners like Dana Cup, FC Copenhagen, and Fafali Organization has been instrumental in the academy’s rapid growth.

ELFA’s success goes beyond football. As a not-for-profit organization, the academy is committed to fostering holistic development by combining sports with education. The academy has created over 20 coaching jobs, including internships for university students from institutions like the University of Ghana and Ashesi University.