The Black Starlets boosted their hopes of qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup after a crucial 3-1 victory over South Africa in their final Group D game at the U-17 AFCON.
Captain Joseph Narbi was the hero for Ghana as he scored twice from the penalty spot to inspire the Starlets to victory in a tense encounter.
The Benab FC youngster opened the scoring in the 8th minute before calmly converting another penalty in the 42nd minute to hand Ghana a comfortable lead heading into halftime.
South Africa responded in the second half through Thandanani Mhlongo, who pulled one back in the 65th minute to set up a nervy finish for the Ghanaians.
However, substitute Augustine Appiah sealed the victory late in the game after restoring Ghana’s two-goal advantage with the third goal of the afternoon.
The result handed the Black Starlets four points from three matches in Group D following their earlier draw against Algeria and defeat to Senegal.
In the other group game, Senegal defeated Algeria 2-1 to finish as winners of the group.
Ghana and Algeria now both finish the group stage with four points and an identical +1 goal difference. The two nations are also level on all tiebreakers, meaning a drawing of lots will now determine which country finishes second and secures automatic qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
The nation that loses the draw will have to settle for a playoff spot to fight for qualification.
