Omanghana
The Black Starlets have departed for Abidjan to face the Young Elephants in a high-profile two-match friendly series ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
The double-header is expected to serve as Ghana’s final major preparation test before the continental tournament begins in Morocco from May 13 to June 2, 2026. The coaching staff sees the matches as an important opportunity to fine-tune tactics, assess player readiness, and build team chemistry before the competition starts.
Both matches will be played at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe, one of Côte d’Ivoire’s premier football venues. The first game is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, while the second encounter will take place on Friday, May 1.
Head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum is using the fixtures to evaluate his 25-man squad against strong international opposition after several domestic friendly matches held in Accra. Facing Côte d’Ivoire is expected to give the team a clearer picture of its strengths and areas that still need improvement.
The Black Starlets face a difficult challenge at the upcoming tournament after being placed in what many are calling the “Group of Death.” In Group D, Ghana will take on Senegal U-17 national football team, Algeria U-17 national football team, and South Africa U-17 national football team.
The upcoming friendlies also carry extra significance because the Black Starlets finished as runners-up to Côte d’Ivoire in the 2025 WAFU Zone B Championship. The matches therefore offer Ghana a chance to measure its progress against the regional champions and gain confidence before heading to Morocco.
With expectations high, Ghanaian fans will be hoping the Black Starlets can use the two games to sharpen their form and build momentum for a successful campaign at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Source: Omanghana
