NSMQ 2026: PRESEC, Legon dethrones defending champions Mfantsipim in thrilling battle to book semi-final spot

The National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) 2026 witnessed an intense showdown between three top-tier schools - PRESEC-Legon, Mfantsipim School, and Presby SHS, Bompata. The nine-time champions PRESEC-Legon emerged victorious, dethroning the defending champions Mfantsipim, to advance to the semi-finals. The competition was fierce, with every question critical, and a single missed opportunity could alter the course of the quiz.

Mfantsipim, the reigning champions, were targeting a third consecutive NSMQ title to celebrate their 150th anniversary. However, their dream ended abruptly as they fell short against PRESEC-Legon. PRESEC-Legon, buoyed by their record eight wins, aimed to achieve a ninth NSMQ trophy, bringing them closer to history. Presby SHS, Bompata, a revelation of this year's competition, aspired to prove their impressive run was no fluke.

From the outset, PRESEC-Legon dominated the quiz, finishing Round One with 23 points, four ahead of Mfantsipim's 19. They maintained their lead in Round Two, with 29 points, while Mfantsipim scored 22, and Bompata scored 11. Despite Mfantsipim's efforts to reduce the gap in Round Three, PRESEC-Legon kept their advantage at 37 points.

By the end of Round Four, PRESEC-Legon had widened their lead to 21 points. In the final round, both Mfantsipim and Bompata put up a strong fight, ending with 39 and 24 points respectively. However, PRESEC-Legon's lead was insurmountable, with 56 points. The victory secured PRESEC-Legon's place in the semi-finals, keeping their quest for a ninth NSMQ title alive.

Mfantsipim's defeat ends their title defense and their pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive championship.