Black Starlets head Prosper Narteh Ogum remains optimistic about the readiness of the team ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco despite their 1-0 defeat to Mali in their final preparatory match
The friendly match was played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Mohammedia as Ghana concluded preparations before the start of the continental tournament.
The Black Starlets had earlier played two warm-up games against Ivory Coast during their training tour in Abidjan.
Ghana lost the first game 2-0 before responding strongly with an impressive 4-0 victory over the Young Elephants in the second encounter.
Speaking after the loss to Mali, Ogum admitted the game provided the kind of challenge his team needed before the competition officially begins.
“This was the type of test we needed ahead of the AFCON. Mali gave us intensity, discipline, and competition at a very high level, and I’m happy with how the boys responded,” he told Ghanafa.org.
The Black Starlets trainer also praised his side’s overall performance despite the result, insisting the team showed encouraging signs during the game.
“We created enough chances to win the game, but sometimes football is like that. What is important for me is the way the boys approached the game, their movement, their pressing, and their confidence on the ball. These are things we can build on heading into the tournament,” he added.
The ex- WAFA coach further stressed that the main focus of the preparatory games was to help improve the team before the tournament starts.
“At this stage, results are secondary to preparation. We have identified a few areas to improve, and that is exactly why these matches are important. I am convinced the team will be ready when the tournament starts,” he concluded.
Ghana return to the U-17 AFCON after nine years and have been drawn in Group D alongside Senegal, Algeria and South Africa. The tournament will run from May 13 to June 2 in Morocco.
