FA Cup Triumph Eases Pain of Nations FC Relegation- Frimpong Manso
Nations FC head coach Stephen Frimpong Manso says winning the 2025/26 MTN FA Cup was a crucial way of rewarding the club’s supporters after the disappointment of suffering relegation from the Ghana Premier League.
The Abrankese-based side ended their season on a high note by securing the first major trophy in the club’s history, overcoming Dreams FC in a dramatic final at the University of Ghana Stadium.
Nations FC appeared on course for victory in normal time when Joseph Effah broke the deadlock in the 31st minute. However, their lead was short-lived as Dreams FC responded through Abdul Razak Salifu to level matters before halftime.
With neither team able to find a decisive goal after the break, the contest proceeded to a penalty shootout. Nations FC kept their composure from the spot and emerged 5-4 winners, sparking jubilant celebrations among players, officials, and supporters.
Speaking after lifting the trophy, Frimpong Manso reflected on the significance of the achievement, particularly following the club’s relegation from the top flight.
“It’s a great feeling (to win the league last season and to win the FA Cup this season)….for me, it’s very good, it doesn’t matter what has happened.”
The experienced coach acknowledged the emotional impact of the club’s difficult league campaign and said the team entered the final determined to give something back to those who had stood by them throughout the season.
“We needed to compensate the management and also our fans…they were all determined to play for this game.”
“We had to win this game other than that it would have been very bad for us.”
The FA Cup success offers Nations FC a remarkable consolation after their relegation and secures qualification for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
While the club will compete in Division One next season, they now have the opportunity to make history on the continental stage with their maiden appearance in CAF inter-club competition. The triumph also provides renewed optimism as Nations FC begin planning for an immediate return to the Ghana Premier League.
