Black Satellites head coach Maxwell Konadu believes Ghana’s lack of international exposure was a major factor behind the team’s disappointing group-stage exit at the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Black Satellites finished third in Group B with two points from three matches, ending their campaign with a 0-0 draw against Togo after earlier results against Nigeria and Burkina Faso.
Despite the early elimination, Konadu praised his players for their commitment and determination throughout the tournament.
“We are happy with the team, but not entirely satisfied with the overall performance. Before this tournament, we talked about the lack of international matches, but we still believed in the boys and encouraged them to give their best. For me, they gave everything,” he said.
The former Ghana international admitted that while the team had enough time to prepare in training, the absence of regular competitive matches at international level ultimately proved costly.
“It is good that we have seen what they can do. Some couldn’t make the mark, while others showed they have what it takes. Now we have to prepare very well because without proper preparation you cannot win tournaments. We had enough time to train, but I think exposure made the difference,” Konadu added.
With Ghana set to host the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, the Black Satellites technical team is expected to increase the number of international friendlies and competitive matches as part of preparations for the continental tournament.
