U-20 AFCON: Ghana coach Desmond Ofei reflects on draw against Congo

Ghana’s U-20 coach, Desmond Sakyi Ofei, has emphasized the need for his team to be more clinical in front of goal after a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their Group C opener at the Total Energies U-20 AFCON Egypt 2025.

Speaking in a press conference after the match, Ofei expressed disappointment at his team’s missed chances, saying, “We should have finished our chances.”

He praised his players for their effort, noting that they “fought hard” against a “very aggressive” and “tough” DR Congo side.

The match was played at the Suez Stadium in Egypt, with DR Congo taking the lead through Samuel Ntanda’s goal in the 16th minute. Ghana equalized just eight minutes later through Aziz Musibau’s goal.

Despite both teams creating scoring opportunities, neither team could find the winner, resulting in a 1-1 draw.

“We should have finished our chances,” Desmond Ofei said, emphasizing the need for his team to be more clinical in front of goal. “We need to be more clinical,” he added.

Ofei also commended his players for their effort, saying, “They fought hard.”

Ofei showed respect for DR Congo, acknowledging their quality and describing them as a formidable opponent. “DR Congo is a very aggressive and tough team,” he said.

The result of the other Group C match between Senegal and Central African Republic, which also ended 1-1, has opened up the group.

Ofei believes that Ghana still has a chance to qualify, saying, “The group is open, and we will fight for qualification.”

Ghana’s next match is against defending champions Senegal. The Black Satellites will be looking to bounce back and secure a win to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Ghana will need to regroup and prepare for their next match against Senegal. Ofei will likely work on improving his team’s finishing and addressing the issues that led to the draw against DR Congo.