The Black Satellites have secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Boys Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Benin in their final Group A match on Wednesday afternoon at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
Despite being reduced to 10 men just before halftime when forward Kelvin Nkrumah was sent off for a second bookable offence, the Black Satellites showed grit and determination to grind out a vital result.
The breakthrough came just seven minutes into the second half when Bless Ege struck brilliantly, firing home after connecting with a clever through pass from team captain Aziz Misbau. The goal proved to be the winner, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home supporters.
Ghana’s victory sees them finish second in Group A, level on four points with Nigeria but behind the Flying Eagles on goal difference. Nigeria top the group following their earlier 4-1 triumph over Benin and a 1-1 draw with Ghana.
The result eliminates Benin from the competition, while Ghana now advance to the semi-finals, where they are likely to face Group B leaders Ivory Coast in what promises to be a titanic clash on Sunday.
Head coach Desmond Ofei was pleased with his team’s resilience, particularly after going a man down, and will now turn attention to fine-tuning the squad ahead of the knockout stage.
“The boys showed character and I am happy for them,” Desmond said after the game.
A place in the final is now just one win away.
