Italy has emerged as the champions of the maiden edition of the Embassies World Cup, organized by Juventus Academy Ghana. The two-day tournament, held at the SMAC Stadium from 9th to 10th May 2026, brought together four diplomatic missions for a celebration of football, diplomacy, and international friendship.
The tournament featured the Italian Embassy, the British High Commission, the Danish Embassy, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana. All four teams competed in a single group, playing each other once in a round-robin format.
After six group stage matches, the British High Commission topped the table with 5 points. The Italian Embassy finished second with 4 points, securing their place in the final. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Danish Embassy ended the group stage with 4 and 3 points respectively.
The semi-finals and final took place on 10th May 2026. In the third-place match, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs defeated the Danish Embassy 3-0. The final saw the Italian Embassy produce a commanding performance to beat the British High Commission 2-0 and lift the inaugural trophy.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the two owners of Juventus Academy Ghana, Mr. Massimiliano Taricone and former Juventus player Mr. Kwadwo Asamoah. Also in attendance were H.E. Laura Ranalli, Italian Ambassador to Ghana, and H.E. Christian Rogg, British High Commissioner, who came to support their respective teams.
Beyond the competition, the Embassies World Cup was organized to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties between Ghana, Italy, Denmark, and the United Kingdom through sport. The tournament provided a platform for collaboration, camaraderie, and goodwill among the participating missions.
Juventus Academy Ghana looks forward to hosting an even larger edition of the tournament in the coming years, further using football as a tool to build relationships and community.
