Ghana’s Black Starlets defeated South Africa 3-1 of their ultimate Group D match in Morocco on Wednesday evening, boosting their hopes of advancing to the 2026 Africa Beneath-17 Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Captain Joseph Narbi scored two targets from the penalty spot to steer coach Prosper Narte Ogham’s facet to an vital victory on the Mohammed VI Soccer Academy in Sale.
Black Starlets entered the match feeling below strain after opening the sport with a 2-2 draw with Algeria, however misplaced 1-0 to a 10-man Senegal facet, leaving them backside of the group with one level.
Ghana bought off to a robust begin and took the lead by successful a penalty halfway by way of the primary half, which Narubi calmly transformed.
The captain doubled Ghana’s benefit simply earlier than half-time, changing an extra spot-kick after South Africa conceded a second penalty, giving the Black Starlets a 2-0 lead at half-time.
South Africa fought again after the break and closed the hole by way of Mhlongo, organising a tense end as Ghana appeared to keep away from additional collapse after giving Algeria a two-goal lead within the first sport.
Nonetheless, the Black Starlets maintained their composure and sealed the victory by scoring their third purpose from a fast counter-attack till the top of stoppage time, ending South Africa’s hopes of qualifying.
Regardless of the victory, Ghana’s place within the finals stays unsure.
Because the Black Starlets are actually on the identical degree as Algeria by way of factors, purpose distinction and head-to-head outcomes, CAF rules require a draw to find out second and third place in Group D.
If Ghana finishes in second place, it is going to advance to the quarter-finals and safe a spot within the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
If Ghana finishes third, they are going to be eradicated from the U-17 AFCON however may have one other probability to qualify for the World Cup by way of the playoffs.
