Head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum believes Ghana’s upcoming double-header friendly against Ivory Coast will serve as a crucial test for the Ghana U-17 national team ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The matches are scheduled for April 28 and May 1 at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, providing the Black Starlets with high-level competitive exposure as they fine-tune preparations for the continental tournament.
Ideal test against a familiar rival
Ogum noted that facing the Young Elephants away from home, in a modern international stadium, will expose his players to the kind of pressure they are likely to encounter at the AFCON.
According to him, the friendlies will be vital for assessing the squad’s tactical discipline, mental resilience, and overall readiness. The stylistic similarities between Ghana and Ivory Coast, he added, make the fixtures a realistic simulation of top-tier youth football on the continent.
Tough group awaits in Morocco
Ghana has been drawn in a challenging Group D alongside reigning champions Senegal, as well as Algeria and South Africa.
The competitive nature of the group means performances in Abidjan will play a key role in shaping the team’s tactical approach, as only top teams and a few best third-placed sides will progress to secure qualification slots for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Final phase of preparations
The team has already arrived in Ebimpe after departing from Accra, marking the beginning of the final phase of their build-up to the tournament in Morocco.
These back-to-back fixtures will give the technical team an opportunity to test combinations, evaluate new players, and instil discipline and composure within the squad.
Rebuilding a legacy
For Ghana—one of Africa’s most successful nations at U-17 level—this mini-tour represents more than just preparation. It is an opportunity to reassert the Black Starlets’ status as a dominant force in youth football. Strong performances in Abidjan could signal that the current squad is ready to compete at the highest level and continue Ghana’s proud legacy at the U-17 AFCON.
Source: gbcghanaonline.com
