Head coach of Ghana’s Black Satellites, Desmond Ofei, says his side is ready for a decisive showdown with the Central African Republic (CAR) as they chase a place in the knockout stage of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The young Ghanaian side reignited their campaign with a vital 1-0 victory over defending champions Senegal on Monday. Emmanuel Mensah’s first-half goal proved enough to secure all three points at the New Suez Stadium, putting Ghana in a strong position heading into their final Group C clash.
The win followed a 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their opening fixture, and now the Satellites know that a positive result against CAR on Thursday, May 8, will likely secure their passage to the quarter-finals.
Looking ahead to the high-stakes encounter, Coach Ofei acknowledged the tough task ahead but expressed confidence in his players’ determination and preparation.
“We respect every opponent, and we know CAR will be a tough team to break down,” Ofei told reporters. “But just as we showed against Senegal, we are prepared to fight for every ball. The boys are focused, and we’re ready to give everything.”
Ofei reiterated that the team’s ultimate ambition goes beyond the continental tournament, with qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Qatar later this year firmly in their sights.
“Our goal remains to secure a ticket to the World Cup. Every game is a step toward that dream, and we will continue to work hard to get there,” he added.
Ghana, four-time U-20 AFCON champions and former world champions at this level, are looking to return to the global stage after missing the last edition of the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
The match against CAR kicks off on Thursday in what promises to be a tense and decisive contest for both sides.
