MSK Zilina Africa Crowned Champions Of Cheetah Cup 2026 After Late Win Over Hosts Cheetah FC

MSK Zilina Africa have been crowned champions of the 2026 Cheetah Cup after a dramatic 1-0 victory over hosts Cheetah FC in the boys’ final at the Yartel Okoso Park, the Predators Den, in Senya Beraku on Sunday, August 23.

In a tense final played before a packed home crowd, both sides created chances but failed to find the breakthrough until late in the game.

The decisive moment came in the 86th minute when MSK Zilina Africa scored the only goal of the match to break the hearts of the hosts and secure the coveted trophy.

For Cheetah FC, who enjoyed massive home support throughout the week-long tournament, it was a painful end after an impressive run to the final. The hosts pushed for an equalizer in the dying minutes but MSK Zilina Africa’s defence held firm to see out the result.

The victory marks sweet redemption for the Accra-based side

The Ghana-based affiliate of Slovakian giants MŠK Zilina finished as runners-up in the 2025 edition after a goalless draw against Nacoro Sporting Academy, before losing 5-4 on penalties. One year on, they returned stronger, more determined, and finally got their hands on the trophy.

The 2026 Cheetah Cup, the 5th anniversary edition, was held from August 16 to 23 at Senya Beraku in the Central Region. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s fastest-growing youth tournaments, this year’s competition brought together youth clubs from 13 African countries, providing a world-class platform for scouts, coaches and fans to witness the continent’s next generation.

Played with the official FIFA World Cup match ball and supported by Decathlon Ghana, the tournament once again lived up to its motto: Celebrate The Game.

For MSK Zilina Africa, this is more than just a trophy,it is history. Their first Cheetah Cup title, and a perfect response to last year’s disappointment.

About The Champions

MSK Zilina Africa was founded in 2018 in Labadi, Accra by Mr. Ishmael Lamptey, President of the club. The club is affiliated to Slovak top-flight side MŠK Zilina and has its training base at the La McDan Park.

President Lamptey Praises Team’s Hardwork

Reacting to the triumph, President of MSK Zilina Africa FC, Ishmael Lamptey, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance.

“I am extremely proud of the boys. This trophy is for all the hardwork they have put in since 2018 when we started this project at La McDan Park. Last year we lost the final on penalties, but the boys showed character and came back stronger,” Lamptey said.

“They have made Ghana and our mother club in Slovakia proud. This is what MSK Zilina Africa stands for — developing young talents and giving them a platform to shine in Europe. This victory is just the beginning.”

Lamptey also commended the technical team and players for their discipline and resilience throughout the tournament, describing the win as a testament to the club’s long-term development vision.

By Elizabeth A. Gyamfi