Ogum Targets Crucial Lessons as Black Starlets Face Ivory Coast in Key Friendlies
Head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum has underlined the importance of Ghana’s upcoming international friendlies against Ivory Coast, describing the double-header as a defining phase in the Black Starlets’ preparations for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Ghana U-17 side is set to engage their Ivorian counterparts in two high-profile matches at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan. The first encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, with the second fixture taking place on Friday, May 1.
For Ogum, the fixtures present more than just match practice—they are a vital opportunity to measure the team’s readiness against top-level opposition.
“These matches are very important for us at this stage of our preparation,” he said.
“We need strong opposition to properly assess the team and make the right adjustments before the tournament.
“Playing Ivory Coast away gives us a real competitive edge. It will test our mentality, our structure, and our ability to cope under pressure,” he added.
The Black Starlets have already touched down in Abidjan, continuing their build-up after departing Ghana over the weekend. The technical team is expected to use both matches to evaluate player combinations, tactical discipline, and overall team cohesion.
Ghana heads into the tournament in Morocco facing a stern challenge in Group D, where they will come up against Senegal, Algeria, and South Africa. The upcoming friendlies are therefore seen as a critical step in sharpening the squad ahead of what promises to be a demanding continental campaign.
