By Kwame Bediako
Head coach of the Black Satellites, Desmond Ofei expressed relief at being drawn into Group A for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The draw, which took place on Thursday, February 13, placed the Black Satellites alongside host nation Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, DR Congo, and an as-yet unnamed team from the UNIFFAC zone. Ofei believes the draw positions his team favorably as they aim for success in the tournament.
Ofei’s sentiments resonate with many as Group A appears to be less daunting compared to Group B, which features powerhouse teams such as Egypt, Morocco, and Nigeria. The head coach acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead but feels that his side has the chance to control their narrative in the tournament. “We’re happy that we’re not in group B because that’s a very interesting group,” he stated, reflecting on the competitive landscape of the competition.
Despite the advantageous draw, Ofei pointed out a potential downside, the fact that Group A consists of five teams, meaning Ghana will have to play an additional match compared to teams in Group B. “The only downside is that we’re in a group of five and we would have to play one extra game compared to the other groups,” he explained. However, he remains optimistic about the team’s ability to navigate the challenges presented by this format.
The 2025 U-20 AFCON is set to kick off on April 26, culminating in the final on May 18. With 13 teams competing this year, the stakes are high, and every match will be crucial for the teams involved. Ofei is determined to keep his team’s focus sharp and their spirits high as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Ultimately, Ofei’s confidence in his team’s ability to manage their situation well will be put to the test in the coming weeks. With a favorable draw and a positive mindset, the Black Satellites aim to make their mark on the tournament and advance through the knockout stages, hoping to capture glory on the continental stage.
