Ghana’s Black Satellites have landed in Ismailia with their sights firmly set on securing a place in the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations (AFCON), as they prepare to take on the Central African Republic (CAR) in their final Group C fixture.
The decisive showdown is set for Thursday, May 8, at the Suez Canal Stadium, with kick-off at 15:00 GMT.
Ghana heads into the encounter in strong form, riding high on the back of a vital 1-0 win over defending champions Senegal. That result, coupled with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening match, has left the Black Satellites level on four points with the Congolese at the top of the group.
With qualification to the next stage hanging in the balance, head coach Desmond Ofei and his squad are leaving nothing to chance. The team is expected to undergo back-to-back training sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday, focusing on refining strategy and building momentum.
The winner-takes-all nature of Thursday’s clash means the stakes couldn’t be higher. A victory would not only send Ghana through to the quarterfinals but also strengthen their campaign to capture a record-extending fourth U-20 AFCON title.
Beyond continental glory, a place in the semifinals would also bring Ghana a step closer to earning a coveted ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile — a primary target for the team.
Speaking to Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Neil Armstrong-Mortagbe, Head of Public Relations and Strategy at the Ghana Football Association, highlighted the team’s determination. “We’re here in Ismailia ready to fight for qualification. The win over Senegal has boosted our confidence, and we’re focused on getting the result we need against CAR,” he said.
As anticipation builds, Ghanaian fans at home and abroad will be closely following Thursday’s clash, hopeful that the Black Satellites can continue their strong run and advance toward another historic triumph.
