U17 AFCON: Black Starlets Fall to Senegal Despite Numerical Advantage
The hopes of the Black Starlets suffered a major setback on Sunday after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal in their second Group D fixture at the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Ghana entered the encounter knowing victory was crucial after their opening draw against Algeria, and the Black Starlets showed urgency from the opening whistle.
The West African side believed they had taken an early lead in the eighth minute, but celebrations were cut short after VAR ruled out the effort.
Senegal’s task became more difficult shortly before halftime when El Hadji Sow received his second yellow card of the match, reducing the defending champions to 10 men in the 42nd minute.
The Black Starlets were then handed a golden opportunity to seize control in added time of the first half after winning a penalty. However, Isaac Barfo failed to convert from the spot as Senegal escaped without conceding before the break.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Senegalese emerged stronger after halftime and punished Ghana in the 57th minute through Ibrahima Dione, whose goal ultimately proved decisive.
Ghana attempted to mount a late response and dominated possession for long spells, but Senegal remained disciplined defensively and frustrated every attacking effort from the Black Starlets.
The defeat leaves Ghana at the bottom of Group D with just one point from two matches ahead of a decisive final group encounter against South Africa national under-17 football team.
The Black Starlets must now secure victory in their final game and hope other results go in their favour to keep alive their chances of progressing in the tournament.
