Ghana, Senegal Crowned Champions As CAF Awards $1M To Winners

Ghana, Senegal Crowned Champions As CAF Awards $1M To Winners 

By Niyi Busari 

Senegal and Ghana were crowned champions of the 2026 CAF African Schools Football Championship, winning the boys’ and girls’ titles respectively after aq thrilling conclusion in Harare, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

In the boys’ final at the Ngoni Stadium on April 10, Senegal edged Uganda 5–4 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time. Both teams created scoring opportunities in a closely contested match, but neither side was able to find a breakthrough before the “Teranga Cubs” held their nerve in the shootout to secure the title.

In the girls’ final, Ghana successfully defended their crown with a dramatic 9–8 penalty shootout victory over Burkina Faso after another 0–0 draw. The “Black Damsels” displayed composure under pressure to retain their championship in a tense encounter.

As champions, Senegal and Ghana each received $300,000 in prize money, while runners-up Uganda and Burkina Faso earned $200,000 apiece. The funds, provided by the Motsepe Foundation, are earmarked for development projects within the participating schools.

The fourth edition of the tournament, held from April 6 to 10 in Harare, showcased some of Africa’s most promising young football talent and reinforced the competition’s role in grassroots development across the continent.

The CAF African Schools Football Championship continues to combine sport and education, positively impacting young players and fostering future stars across Africa.

Nigeria did not feature in the main tournament after being eliminated during the CAF/WAFU Zone B qualifying series.

Final Standings:

Boys’ Champions: Senegal – $300,000

Boys’ Runners-up: Uganda – $200,000

Girls’ Champions: Ghana – $300,000

Girls’ Runners-up: Burkina Faso – $200,000