The national U-19 and U-17 Women’s Handball Teams have commenced their participation in the 2025 IHF Challenge Trophy, Africa Zone III tournament, which began today, April 20, and runs through April 24 in Abidjan.
Ghana’s quest for gold in the U-19 category got off to a promising start with a 23-16 victory over the Central African Republic, under the lights at the Palais des Sports Treichville.
Despite a shaky beginning, conceding three goals before scoring their first in the fifth minute, Ghana rallied to level the score at 8-8 by halftime.
In the second half, the team displayed a more cohesive performance, tightening their defensive shape around the 9-meter line and enhancing their offensive approach through the centre.
Mary Akaasa, Josephine Mensah, and Edna Benyingi led a second-half onslaught on the CAR side, netting several goals within 10 minutes.
As the game neared its conclusion, Ghana shifted to a more defensive strategy to preserve their lead, ultimately securing a 23-16 victory.
Mary Akaasa was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the match for her outstanding contribution.
Head coach Raphael Sifah acknowledged the team’s improved overall performance but emphasised the need to sharpen their focus in the opening minutes of games.
“There is more room for improvement, so we will work on our shortcomings from the first game and refine our strategies moving forward,” he noted.
Earlier in the day, the U-17 team suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of their Burkina Faso counterparts.
Trailing 15-21 at halftime, Ghana was unable to mount a comeback in the second half and eventually fell 41-27.
Coach Sifah expressed confidence in his team’s potential to rebound.
“This is a developmental tournament, and I believe that with time, the players will adapt and improve,” he remarked.
The U-19 team will next face Burkina Faso on Monday at 18:00 GMT, while the U-17 side will take on Togo earlier that day at noon.
