The Black Starlets produced their best performance of the WAFU Zone B U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifying Tournament to secure a commanding 3-1 victory over Niger in their final Group A fixture at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro. The result sealed their qualification to the semi-finals of the competition.

Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum made five changes to his starting line-up following the defeat to Ivory Coast. Gabriel Denyinah returned from suspension to bolster the backline while Mark Kagawa Mensah, Augustine Appiah, Hakeem Kasim and Mujahid Osman were all handed starting roles. The changes provided an instant impact as Ghana began with intensity.

The Black Starlets took the lead just two minutes into the game when striker Robinho Yao Gavi finished off a brilliant move. Niger responded almost immediately to level through Ismael Younoussa Arbi, with the first half ending 1-1 after both teams battled for control.

Ghana returned from the break with renewed determination, dominating possession and pinning the Nigeriens in their own half.

Playmaker Mark Kagawa Mensah set the stadium alight with a thunderous long-range strike to restore Ghana’s lead before Robinho Yao Gavi sealed the win with his second goal of the afternoon.

The 3-1 victory means the Black Starlets are through to the semi-finals and now await their opponents from Group B after the final round of fixtures on Saturday.

GFA COMMUNICATIONS