Eight universities battle for glory in maiden Honda Football Championship

Football fans in northern Ghana are set for a week of intense university football action as eight tertiary institutions converge on Tamale for the inaugural Honda Football Championship.

The five-day tournament, scheduled for 24 to 28 March 2026, will be staged at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, with matches running daily from morning to evening.

The competition brings together some of the country’s leading universities, including the University of Ghana, University of Professional Studies Accra, University of Mines and Technology and University of Energy and Natural Resources. Others are the University for Development Studies, University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Tamale Technical University and Bolgatanga Technical University.

Organisers say the championship is designed not only to showcase football talent at the tertiary level but also to promote youth development, teamwork and community engagement.

As part of efforts to broaden participation and entertainment, the final match day will feature a curtain-raiser involving two top senior high school teams, expected to heighten excitement ahead of the championship decider.

The tournament will be open to the public free of charge, a move aimed at encouraging strong community turnout and giving football enthusiasts in Tamale and surrounding areas the opportunity to experience high-level university football.

The Managing Director of Overseas Union Limited, distributors of Honda motorcycles and power products in Ghana, Mr F. Yao Dawson, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to youth empowerment through sport.

“At Honda, we believe that investing in young people is investing in the future of our society. The upcoming Honda Football Championship among university students is more than just a competition, it is a platform designed to inspire leadership, teamwork, and innovation among the youth. Through initiatives like this, Honda aims to support opportunities that promote positive social impact while empowering the next generation”, he said.

With pride, rivalry and emerging talent all set to be on display, the championship is expected to deliver a vibrant football festival atmosphere and further strengthen the role of sport in youth development across the country.