Former Ghana international Nii Odartey Lamptey has urged the Black Starlets to sharpen their concentration and raise their performance level following a 2–2 draw against Algeria in their opening match at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Ghana made a strong start in the Group D encounter at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, racing into a 2–0 lead through early strikes from Yao Gavi Robinho and Eric Adu Gyamfi.
The Algerians, however, responded after the break, netting twice before the 70th minute to restore parity. They were later handed a chance to complete the turnaround but failed to convert a late penalty opportunity.
Speaking in an interview, Odartey Lamptey said, “A draw against Algeria is not a bad result, but then the players must improve in the next game.”
He further added, “For now, the team must win their last two games or win one and draw one to ensure qualification,” stressing the importance of securing points in the remaining group matches.
The result places additional pressure on Ghana as they prepare for their next Group D fixture against Senegal on Sunday, May 17, where a stronger showing will be needed to boost their qualification hopes.
