The Black Starlets of Ghana have sealed their place in the final of the WAFU Zone B Under-17 Cup of Nations after a commanding 2–0 victory over long-standing rivals Nigeria. The win not only sets up a mouth-watering final but also secures Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The Starlets were in fine form, striking in both halves to dismantle a Nigerian side that has historically been one of Africa’s strongest at youth level. Ghana’s backline held firm against Nigeria’s pace and physicality, while their attacking players showed composure and clinical finishing to deliver a memorable result in front of a jubilant home crowd.
This latest triumph adds another chapter to one of the continent’s fiercest football rivalries. Matches between Ghana and Nigeria are always intense, and this semi-final was no exception. However, Ghana’s discipline, tactical awareness, and determination ensured they emerged deserved winners.
The victory also marks a significant step in Ghana’s ongoing quest to reclaim its historic reputation in youth football. The Black Starlets were once a dominant force on the global stage, winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup twice—in 1991 and 1995—and finishing as runners-up on two further occasions, in 1993 and 1997. Ghana also lifted the U-17 AFCON trophy twice, in 1995 and 1999, cementing their status as pioneers of African youth football.
However, recent years have seen a decline in Ghana’s presence at major youth tournaments, with inconsistent performances denying them the opportunity to build on their proud legacy. This qualification for Morocco 2026 is therefore seen as a vital moment in restoring the nation’s pedigree at under-17 level.
The Black Starlets will now face the winner of the second semi-final in the WAFU B Cup of Nations final, with the chance to lift their first regional title in several years. Victory in the final would further boost confidence as they prepare for the continental stage in Morocco, where Africa’s brightest young talents will compete for glory and World Cup qualification.
Head Coach [insert name if available] expressed delight at his team’s progress, praising their resilience and commitment. “Beating Nigeria is always special, but what matters most is that we have secured qualification for the AFCON. This group of players has shown that Ghanaian youth football is on the rise again,” he said.
With a place at the 2026 U-17 AFCON now confirmed, Ghanaian fans will be hoping the Black Starlets can build on this momentum and, in time, emulate the golden generations that once made Ghana the envy of world football.
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