Ghanaâ??s ELFA U-12 crowned champions at 2025 Dana Cup in Denmark

Ghana’s East Legon Football Academy (ELFA) U-12 boys have made history by winning the 2025 Dana Cup in Hjørring, Denmark, capturing international attention with a dominant performance on their way to the title.

Competing against 61 teams from 27 countries in the Boys U-12 division, the young Ghanaians showcased maturity beyond their years to place Ghanaian youth football firmly in the global spotlight.

Founded in 2019 in Accra, ELFA is appearing in just its third Dana Cup but looked every inch the rising powerhouse. They stormed through the knockout rounds, beating Germany’s JSG Fintau 4–0 in the Round of 16, Greenland’s B-67 2 by 3–1 in the quarter-finals, before sealing glory with a commanding 4–0 win over Norway’s Madla IL in the final.

“This win is about more than just a trophy,” said Winston Yeboah Danso, Founder and President of ELFA. “Our boys showed the world that Ghana can produce not only talented footballers but responsible young leaders. This is just the beginning.”

Head coach Michael Edmond Nii Tettey praised his players’ development: “They played with heart, discipline, and understanding, but more importantly, they grew as individuals. That’s what we aim for: total development.”

ELFA combines football training with education, character-building and leadership programmes, supported by initiatives such as the Emerge Project, which provides scholarships and mentorship.

The team’s return to Ghana sparked wild celebrations at Kotoka International Airport, where family and supporters gathered to welcome the champions home. Key to their journey has been support from Elevate Global Consult Limited.

“Our partnership is built on belief in what young people can achieve when given the right tools,” said CEO Akordy Abingya. “This victory is a shining example of that vision.”

The 2025 Dana Cup took place from 21–26 July, featuring a festive opening ceremony and a week of elite youth competition. ELFA’s success has now cemented their status among Africa’s brightest youth academies on the world stage.

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