The Black Starlets have arrived in Ivory Coast to participate in the much-anticipated WAFU Zone B U17 Championship.

The contingent arrived in Abidjan on Monday and checked in at the Capitol Hotel in Cocody as they began their final phase of preparations ahead of the competition.

On Tuesday morning, the team departed Abidjan for Yamoussoukro, the tournament base, to fine-tune their training and adapt to the local conditions.

Head coach Dr. Prosper Nartey Ogum has expressed optimism about his team’s chances at the tournament.

Speaking after their arrival, the coach highlighted the commitment and determination of his players, noting that their preparations back in Accra had been intensive and deliberate.

“We have prepared well, and the boys understand what is at stake,” Dr. Ogum said.

“We’re confident in our ability to qualify from the group and go all the way to the final in the tournament. The unity, discipline, and quality in this team give me a lot of hope.”

The WAFU Zone B U17 Championship serves as the qualifying tournament for the next U17 Africa Cup of Nations, making it a crucial platform for the Black Starlets to showcase their talent and secure a place on the continental stage. Ghana, a two-time FIFA U17 World Cup winner, is eager to reclaim its reputation as a powerhouse at this level.

The Black Starlets will be in Group A with hosts Ivory Coast, Togo and Niger.

The tournament officially kicks off on Saturday, September 20, ims to secure a spot at the U17 AFCON and, ultimately, return to the global stage.

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