The Member of Parliament for Sissala East, Hon. Mohammed Issah Bataglia, says the inaugural Betway Tumu Cup has reignited hope among the youth in Sissala land, inspiring them to believe in their potential to reach greater heights.

The one-day football tournament, held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Tumu Sports Stadium AstroTurf, saw Real 24 Hours crowned champions after an impressive final. The competition, which featured eight teams, marked the culmination of six qualifying rounds that took place across the constituency.

“Football in the Sissala land has always been top notch. This is what we've seen again. Before, it was dying down—it felt like there was no hope,” Hon. Bataglia said. “A lot of people did the same thing, and yet nobody went anywhere."

He praised the involvement of Joy Sports editor Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo, the Joy News team, and title sponsors Betway, crediting their efforts for revitalizing the sporting spirit of the region.

“Fentuo, the Joy News team, and Betway coming in—you have uplifted the spirit of our young ones,” he noted. “I am sure they are more energized walking off this pitch, believing that there is a future they can reach for."

“Before, it felt like there was no hope…” — Sissala East MP Mohammed Issah Bataglia speaks on how the @betway_gh Tumu Cup has revived dreams in the area #BetwayTumuCup2025 | @PeevaBeverages pic.twitter.com/2MRrHNwrY2

— Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo (@Fentuo_) May 27, 2025

Hon. Bataglia attended the tournament with the Sissala East Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Adamu Yakubu. Together, they watched the vibrant showcase of talent from all participating teams.

Real 24 Hours, known for their historic clash with Asante Kotoko in a previous MTN FA Cup tie, earned GHS5,000, medals, and the championship trophy. Bujan Crocodiles, who finished second, took home GHS3,000, while Soccer Babies placed third and were awarded GHS2,000.

The event was organised by Fentuo in collaboration with Betway, and supported by Peeva Beverages, with the goal of promoting grassroots football in the Upper West Region.