Ghana Edge Benin to Book Semi-Final Spot in 2025 WAFU Zone B U-20 Championship
Ghana’s U-20 men’s national team advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 WAFU Zone B U-20 Championship following a hard-fought 1-0 win over Benin on Wednesday at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
The Black Satellites, who played the entire second half with 10 men, showed character and resilience to secure the vital three points and progress from Group A.
The decisive moment came in the 52nd minute when Golden Kick FC winger Bless Ege found the back of the net. Ege coolly slotted home after latching onto a well-weighted through ball from team captain Aziz Misbau, giving Ghana a crucial lead.
The first half was largely uneventful in terms of clear chances, although Ghana goalkeeper Gidios Aseako was tested in the 31st minute, making a smart save to deny Benin the opener.
Ghana’s task became more difficult in the 40th minute when Medeama SC forward Kelvin Nkrumah was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge, reducing the team to 10 men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Black Satellites regrouped and displayed impressive tactical discipline in the second half. Benin increased the pressure and controlled much of the possession, but their final ball lacked precision.
Asante Kotoko’s Peter Amidu Acquah came close to doubling Ghana’s lead in the 72nd minute, but his effort narrowly missed the target.
The victory sees Ghana finish second in Group A with four points, following an earlier 1-1 draw with Nigeria. Both Ghana and Nigeria advance to the semi-finals, while Benin bow out of the competition without registering a point.
