Ghana defeat Nigeria to book U-17 AFCON spot and WAFU Zone B Final

Ghana Black Starlets sealed a place in the final of the WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship after defeating Nigeria 2-0 in the semi-final at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro.

Goals from John Awule and Robhino Gavi Yao ensured victory and, more importantly, qualification for the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Read more: Black Queens coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren sets sights on WAFCON glory

The Starlets started brightly, pressing the Nigerians but initially struggled to create clear chances.

Narbi Joseph went close with a powerful effort that missed the target, before Gavi’s strike was saved by the Nigerian goalkeeper.

The breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Michael Awuni calmly finished off a fine team move to put Ghana ahead.

Ten minutes later, Ghana doubled their advantage as Robhino Gavi Yao curled home a delightful strike after being set up by Kagawa Mensah.

Nigeria responded after going two goals down, but Ghana’s goalkeeper Solomon Kwame produced two superb saves to keep his side in control.

Before halftime, Narbi Joseph twice missed big chances to extend the lead, including a blistering run that ended with a shot over the bar. Ghana, however, went into the break with a comfortable two-goal cushion.

The second half saw Nigeria push forward in search of a way back into the game, while Ghana conserved energy and looked to strike on the counter. Kwame remained solid, pulling off another brilliant save in the 80th minute to deny Nigeria.

Despite late pressure, the Black Starlets defended resolutely to see out the win without conceding.

The result sets up a mouth-watering final against hosts Ivory Coast on Sunday a repeat of their group stage clash, which the Ivorians won.

With the victory, Ghana not only earned a place in the WAFU B final but also secured qualification for the 2026 U-17 AFCON in Morocco.

Read more: Black Queens coach Lars Kim Bjorkegren names final 24-woman squad for WAFCON 2024