Ghana’s Black Satellites wrapped up their group stage campaign at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 1-0 win over the Central African Republic, thanks to a late strike from Joseph Opoku.
The Belgium-based forward came off the bench to fire home in the 84th minute, sealing Ghana’s place at the top of Group C with seven points and maintaining their unbeaten run at the tournament.
Desmond Ofei’s side had already secured qualification to the quarter-finals following a draw against DR Congo and a crucial 1-0 victory over defending champions Senegal.
But they went into their final group match knowing that a win would cement top spot and potentially set up a more favourable knockout fixture.
The Satellites dominated the first half, creating several chances, most of which fell to Barcelona B midfielder Abdul Aziz Issah. Despite their control, Ghana failed to break the deadlock before halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern with Ghana in control but unable to convert until Ishmael Addo’s long pass found Opoku, who calmly slotted home past the goalkeeper to settle the tie.
The victory means Ghana finish ahead of DR Congo and Senegal in Group C and now prepare for a quarter-final clash against either Zambia or Tunisia, third-placed finishers from Groups A and B, respectively.
A win in the last eight would not only send the Black Satellites into the semi-finals but also guarantee a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, a tournament Ghana hasn’t featured in since 2015.
FKA/MA
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