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Grand Gedeh Clashes with Lofa County in 2025 County Meet Final

Writer's picture: Michael TMichael T
Feb 24 min read

Lofa And Grand Gedeh Flag
Flags of Lofa and Grand Geded Counties

The 2025 National County Sports Meet football final between Grand Gedeh County and Lofa County at Monrovia's Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex promises to be a historic showdown, pitting resurgent ambition against consistent excellence. Grand Gedeh County has reached its first football final in over a decade, securing a dramatic 3-2 semi-final victory over Maryland County. Striker Nuch Zohn's brace in the first half and a third goal from Daniel Moah propelled the "Putu Mountain Boys" to the championship match[3]. This marks their first final appearance since 2010 and a chance to end a 39-year title drought, having last won in 1986.


Lofa County, the 2020/2021 champions, advanced to their third consecutive final after defeating Margibi County 5-4 in a penalty shootout. Star forward James Tarpeh (2021 MVP) and defender Nathan Karmboro anchor a squad hardened by recent finals experience. Their 4-0 semi-final rout of Bong County showcased their attacking depth and tactical prowess[3].


The final presents a clash of contrasting styles and narratives. Grand Gedeh employs a high-press strategy, having scored 8 goals in 4 knockout matches[2]. Lofa, on the other hand, relies on set-piece efficiency, with Tarpeh scoring in every knockout game. The battle between Grand Gedeh's aggressive offense and Lofa's structured defense will likely define the match's tempo and outcome.


Key players to watch include Grand Gedeh's Nuch Zohn, the tournament's leading scorer with 5 goals, and defensive captain T. Weah. For Lofa, James Tarpeh's experience as the 2021 MVP and Emmanuel Flomo's crucial equalizer against Margibi in the semi-finals highlight their offensive threats.


This final marks the first meeting between these counties in a championship match since 1986 when Grand Gedeh won via coin toss. While Lofa seeks to add to their 2021 triumph, Grand Gedeh aims for redemption after falling short in the 2007 and 2010 finals.


The semi-final performances of both teams demonstrated their mental fortitude. Grand Gedeh survived a late Maryland comeback, while Lofa overcame Margibi in a tense penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw[3]. These displays of resilience under pressure set the stage for a potentially thrilling final.


Beyond the pitch, the County Meet has significant economic implications. Sponsors like APM Terminals Liberia have contributed over $23,000, boosting local businesses through increased fan attendance. With the SKD Complex expected to draw over 35,000 spectators, the event promises to generate substantial revenue for Monrovia's economy.


The tournament also serves as a spotlight for youth development, with emerging talents like Grand Gedeh's Zohn and Lofa's 18-year-old midfielder Jeygbeh Konneh attracting attention from scouts representing European and African clubs[3].


President Boakai's administration has framed the tournament as "Inclusive Development through Sports" in an effort to ease political tensions. However, critics argue that the event may distract from ongoing constitutional crises involving his administration [1].


Fan dynamics add another layer of excitement to the final, with over 10,000 Grand Gedeh supporters reportedly traveling from Zwedru, while Lofa's "Wologisi Fan Army" dominates the northern turnout [2]. Security measures have been heightened in response to clashes during the 2024 final.


As kickoff approaches, predictions favor Lofa County slightly (55%-45%) due to their recent championship pedigree and deeper squad. However, Grand Gedeh's momentum and hunger to end their title drought could potentially deliver an upset. The key battle to watch will be between Zohn and Lofa's center-back pairing of Karmboro and Curtis.


Today's final transcends sports, embodying Liberia's cultural pride and post-conflict unity. While Lofa's experience gives them an edge, Grand Gedeh's resurgence and determination make this final too close to call. Football fans across Liberia and beyond are in for a treat as these two proud counties battle for glory on the national stage. The match is expected to be fiercely contested, with a predicted score of Lofa County 2-1 Grand Gedeh County after extra time. But with Determination Grand Gedeh can prove critics wrong.


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