The stage is set for a big showdown as eternal rivals Ghana and Nigeria prepare to battle it out for the WAFU B U20 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 centre 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 to 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 accounted for Niger 2-0 before they rallied from behind to beat Cote D’voire 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 Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 to advance to the semis, where they rallied from behind to beat the Junior Menas of Niger 3-1 to set up a final against eternal rivals Ghana.