Ghana’s Black Starlets claimed a decisive 2-0 victory over Nigeria in the WAFU Zone B U-17 semi-final.
The win sent them to the final and secured qualification for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The young Ghanaians displayed quality, discipline, and clinical finishing to overcome their West African rivals.
Ghana started the match with high intensity and controlled the tempo early on.
Their attacking pressure paid off in the 21st minute when Michael Awuli broke the deadlock with a composed finish inside the box, putting the Starlets in front.
The goal boosted their confidence and allowed them to dominate possession against a Nigerian side struggling to find rhythm.
Just ten minutes later, Robinho Yao Gavi doubled Ghana’s advantage with a powerful strike, extending their lead to 2-0 before half-time.
The two early goals gave the Black Starlets a strong foundation to dictate the remainder of the game.
After the break, Nigeria increased their efforts and pushed forward in search of a comeback.
They created several chances but lacked precision in the final third.
Ghana’s defence stood firm, maintaining compact shape and neutralising Nigeria’s attacking threats.
The midfield trio also worked tirelessly to break up play and launch counterattacks that kept Nigeria under pressure.
The Starlets managed the game intelligently in the closing stages, controlling possession and slowing the tempo to deny their opponents any momentum.
Their tactical discipline and teamwork ensured a deserved victory.
The result sends Ghana into the WAFU Zone B final and guarantees their place at the 2026 U17 AFCON in Morocco.
The young Starlets now aim to win the regional title and build momentum ahead of their return to continental competition.
