Nima, Sabon Zongo to clash in opener of 10th Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup

6d ago | Source: Graphic Online

Nima, Sabon Zongo to clash in opener of 10th Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup

Football passion will once again grip the Zongo communities as the much-anticipated 10th edition of the Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup kicks off this Saturday, April 12, at the Kawukudi Park in Accra, with an explosive opening fixture between Nima and Sabon Zongo.

The tie, which features two of Ghana’s most traditional Zongo strongholds, was confirmed at the official draw held in Accra yesterday. This year’s edition, dubbed a special commemorative tournament, marks a decade of the annual event held in honour of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu.

For the past nine years, the tournament has served as a unifying platform for Zongo communities across the country, drawing together youth from various regions to engage in spirited but peaceful football competition at the close of Ramadan.

In a departure from previous editions, the 10th-anniversary tournament will feature only 15 teams, a reduced number from the usual 32, with participating teams selected based on merit, history, and performance in past tournaments. Organisers say the selected sides include former champions, founding members, and standout performers.

One of the notable changes this year is the venue. Traditionally staged at Fadama Park—located near the residence of the National Chief Imam—the tournament has been relocated to Kawukudi Park in Kanda due to ongoing renovations at the Fadama grounds.

During the live draw, defending champions Ashaiman, who have lifted the trophy three times, received a bye into the second round. Other seeded sides include former winners Madina, Nima, Mamobi and Kasoa.

“Interestingly, the first round draw pitched two traditional Zongos together, Nima and Sabon Zongo for the opening fixture of the tournament,” organisers noted, highlighting the fierce but friendly rivalry expected to ignite the tournament's curtain-raiser.

The Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup continues to attract high-profile attention. As with previous editions, this year's competition is expected to draw notable personalities from the football fraternity, religious leaders, and key figures from Zongo communities. The National Chief Imam is also expected to be in attendance to grace the opening ceremony.