The stage is set for a blockbuster showdown in Yamoussoukro as Ghana’s Black Starlets prepare to lock horns with hosts Ivory Coast in the grand finale of the 2025 WAFU B U17 Boys Championship. After a thrilling run that saw Ghana silence archrivals Nigeria with a commanding 2-0 semi-final victory, the Starlets are brimming with confidence and hunger to lift the ultimate prize.

Two first-half strikes from Michael Awuli and Robinho Yao Gavi proved more than enough to sink the Nigerians and book Ghana’s ticket to the finals. The win has reignited belief in the team, who stumbled in the group stage against Ivory Coast but have since rediscovered their rhythm in emphatic fashion. Now, the Starlets are determined to rewrite that script when it matters most — in the final.

Standing in their way are the Elephants of Ivory Coast, who have equally impressed on home soil. The Ivorians edged Burkina Faso 2-1 in a tense semi-final, with their fiery attack and passionate home support proving decisive. With the home crowd set to pack the Charles Konan Banny Stadium at 19:00GMT on Friday, Ivory Coast will be hoping to repeat their earlier victory over Ghana and clinch the crown in front of their fans.

But the Black Starlets have momentum on their side. From a shaky start to back-to-back wins over Niger and Nigeria, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum’s boys have grown sharper, stronger, and more united with every game. Their resurgence has ignited a wave of optimism back home in Ghana, with fans rallying behind the team to bring the trophy across the border.

The final promises fireworks: Ghana’s attacking flair led by Clement and Gavi against Ivory Coast’s resilient defense and home advantage. It’s more than just a final — it’s pride, rivalry, and destiny on the line.

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