WAFU B U20: Maxwell Konadu eyes positive response as Black Satellites prepare for Burkina Faso
Ghana U20 head coach Maxwell Konadu has expressed confidence in his side's readiness ahead of Thursday's decisive Group B clash against Burkina Faso at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro, insisting the Black Satellites have put the disappointment of their opening match firmly behind them.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated encounter, Konadu revealed that his technical team has focused on rebuilding the players mentally and physically, stressing that dwelling on the past would serve no purpose.
"We have prepared the boys psychologically and physically for tomorrow's encounter. What happened on Monday, we've kept that behind us. It's past and gone. There is nothing we can do about it. The assignment ahead of us is important and crucial for all of us."
The experienced tactician disclosed that Ghana's preparations have centred on exploiting their strengths, particularly in the wide areas, while ensuring defensive discipline under pressure.
"We told the boys to keep more circulation to our advantage where we're strong at, especially in the wide areas. We need to exploit those areas very well."
Konadu admitted that several members of the squad were making their first appearance at this level and were understandably nervous in the opening game, but believes they have now settled into the tournament.
"We spoke about how to defend very well, especially under intense pressure. Most of the boys are new to this tournament, so some were a bit jittery. The players have recovered and are ready to face Burkina tomorrow."
The former Asante Kotoko coach acknowledged Burkina Faso's quality but believes Ghana have identified areas they can capitalise on.
"They progress the ball well and they have some quality in their team, but so do we. It's about not allowing them to have their way deep in midfield. We know they are not as strong in the wide areas, and we have to be cautious of their two attacking forwards. We have to manage them well, isolate them and play our game."
While recognising Burkina Faso's aggressive style of play, Konadu remains optimistic that his players are mentally equipped for the challenge.
"They have quality, there is no doubt about it, and they play with so much aggression, which we're aware of. But we've prepared the boys psychologically and tomorrow will be a completely different ball game."
"We are anxious to win the game, but that shouldn't lead us to throw everything away. We have to manage the game depending on how it unfolds. Obviously, we have to be more aggressive because we want to carry the day."
Konadu also pointed out that the tournament has served as an important learning experience for his youthful squad, especially after Ghana entered the competition without the benefit of international friendly matches.
"We didn't get the opportunity to play friendly matches, so this platform has given us a wide range of issues to discuss and make decisions on. The boys know they have to perform, and we are supporting them to achieve their objectives. This tournament is also teaching us what to expect at the AFCON itself. We've learnt a lot of lessons."
Addressing the defensive mistakes that proved costly in the previous match, including conceding a penalty, Konadu revealed that the coaching staff had worked closely with the players to ensure such errors are not repeated.
"We've spoken to the players and done some work, which we'll finish today before the Burkina game. Giving away a penalty is never easy for a defender because they're also doing a job for the team. We've discussed what to do and what not to do in certain areas of the pitch. Hopefully, tomorrow they won't repeat those mistakes."
On the fitness front, the coach provided an encouraging update, confirming that key players who picked up knocks are expected to be available.