Kenpong Football Academy has once again reinforced its reputation as Ghana’s premier youth football institution after an impressive maiden training tour of Europe. The Academy’s Under-18 team, led by its founder and benefactor Kennedy Agyapong, popularly known as Kenpong, embarked on a journey that not only tested their abilities against elite Belgian opposition but also provided the young footballers with invaluable international exposure.
Strong Performance in Belgium
The Academy’s Under-18 squad competed in three high-profile friendly matches against some of Belgium’s most respected youth teams. Their first game saw the Ghanaian side put up a spirited performance to defeat Club Brugge’s U-18 team by 3-1, a result that caught the attention of several Belgian football scouts. They followed up with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against KV Mechelen before narrowly losing 3-1 to KRC Genk in a competitive encounter that highlighted both the team’s strengths and areas for further development.
Although the final results reflected a win, a draw, and a loss, the overall takeaway was clear: the Academy’s players demonstrated the technical prowess, tactical discipline, and competitive edge necessary to stand toe-to-toe with established European academies.
Kenpong’s Vision
For Kenpong, who has invested heavily in nurturing football talent in Ghana, the European tour was more than just a series of matches. In an interview with the media upon their return, he stressed the enormous benefits derived from the trip.
“The exposure and experience significantly broaden the team’s technical and tactical perspectives. Notably, four Academy players are slated to return to Belgium for short-term training stints with Club Brugge, a partnership intended to become an annual tradition,” he revealed.
Kenpong also underscored how the Belgian clubs recognized the immense footballing potential in Ghana and expressed their eagerness to contribute to shaping the Academy’s young stars into professionals capable of competing at the highest levels.
Collaboration with Coaches
The success of the European experience was also credited to the collaborative efforts of renowned Ghanaian coach J.E. Sarpong and Belgium-based coach Eric Asante of KV Mechelen. Together, they worked tirelessly to sharpen the skills of the players, exposing them to advanced training methodologies and modern football systems.
Coach Sarpong described the trip as a watershed moment in the Academy’s history.
“The boys were exposed to rigorous training regimens and international standards of play. This will go a long way in improving their game and shaping them for the future,” he said.
He further noted that such tours are crucial in bridging the gap between African academies and their European counterparts, as they help players adjust to different styles of play and adapt to high levels of competition.
Next Stop: Spain
Building on the success of the Belgian tour, Kenpong Football Academy has already set its sights on another international experience. Plans are underway for the team to travel to Spain in December 2025 or early January 2026. Kenpong confirmed that arrangements are being finalized and expressed confidence that the Spanish expedition would offer even greater opportunities for the players to develop and showcase their talents.
“Spain is one of the best footballing nations in the world, with a unique style of play. Exposing our boys to that environment will further enhance their growth and confidence,” he added.
More than Football
While football remains the Academy’s primary focus, Kenpong emphasized that the institution is built on a holistic foundation. Beyond developing football skills, the Academy fosters discipline, leadership, and academic excellence. He believes that preparing players for life beyond the pitch is equally important, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in different areas of life.
The Academy provides access to quality education alongside world-class coaching. Players are encouraged to view discipline as the cornerstone of success, while leadership development programs equip them with skills that transcend football. In Kenpong’s words, “Football talent may open the door, but character and education will keep it open.”
Building a Global Platform for Ghanaian Talent
Kenpong Football Academy’s rise reflects a broader ambition: to place Ghanaian football on the global stage. With state-of-the-art facilities and a clear vision, the Academy has become a beacon of hope for young talents across the country. Many young footballers dream of following in the footsteps of Ghanaian greats who made their mark in Europe, and the Academy is committed to making that dream a reality.
The partnership with Club Brugge and other European clubs signals the beginning of stronger international networks that will allow Ghanaian players to access professional pathways earlier in their careers. Such collaborations also serve as learning opportunities for Ghanaian coaches and trainers, who gain insights into global best practices.
Community Impact
The Academy is also making a positive impact beyond the football pitch. By offering opportunities to young players, many of whom come from underprivileged backgrounds, Kenpong Football Academy is helping to transform lives. For many families, football is more than a sport—it is a vehicle of hope, empowerment, and upward mobility.
Through structured training, mentorship, and exposure, the Academy is producing not only athletes but also responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully to society.
Looking Ahead
As the Academy prepares for its next European tour, the excitement among players, coaches, and parents is palpable. For many of the young stars, stepping onto European soil was a dream come true, and the upcoming trip to Spain promises even more opportunities to learn, grow, and excel.
The journey of Kenpong Football Academy is still unfolding, but what is certain is that it has already made a strong case for itself as a leader in youth football development in Ghana. With the dedication of Kenpong, the expertise of seasoned coaches, and the hunger of young players eager to succeed, the Academy’s future looks promising.
In just a short time, Kenpong Football Academy has proven that Ghana’s footballing future is bright. Its debut European tour is not just a milestone but a foundation for even greater achievements ahead. By combining football excellence with discipline, education, and international exposure, the Academy is nurturing the next generation of Ghanaian football stars destined to shine on the global stage.
