The stage is set for a big showdown as eternal rivals Ghana and Nigeria prepare to battle it out for the WAFU B U-20 Championship title on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, in Togo, with the Black Satellites determined to reclaim the title from their rivals.
The Stade de Kegue in Lome will be the center of footballing drama as two of Africa’s most storied youth teams meet in a match of epic proportions.
While both Ghana and Nigeria have secured qualification for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations next year, the clash between two of West Africa’s football powerhouses evokes emotions, with a sub-regional title and bragging rights at stake.
Ghana’s journey to the final has been marked by resilience, individual brilliance, and teamwork after navigating their way through a tough group comprising hosts Togo, Benin, and Niger.
The Black Satellites topped their group after drawing twice against Togo (1-1) and Benin (2-2) and accounting for Niger with a 2-0 victory. They also rallied from behind to beat Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 in their semi-final match.
Their ability to grind out results, coupled with the attacking flair of players like Jerry Afriyie and Musibau Aziz, has propelled Desmond Ofei’s side to the final.
Standing in their way, though, are the Flying Eagles of Nigeria, who have grown into the championship after a slow start. They lost 1-0 to Burkina Faso before overcoming Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 to advance to the semi-finals, where they rallied from behind to beat the Junior Menas of Niger 3-1, setting up a final against eternal rivals Ghana.
It promises to be an exciting final after both nations showcased their resilience and attacking prowess in the group stage and knockout phase.
The Black Satellites are determined to reclaim the title from the current holders, Nigeria, in what promises to be an absorbing final in Lome on Wednesday night.
The WAFU B U-20 Championship serves as qualification for the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, with only Ghana and Nigeria advancing.
This 2025 U-20 AFCON will also serve as the African qualifiers for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, where the four semi-finalists will qualify automatically.