Black Satellites head coach Desmond Ofei has hailed the performance of his team at the WAFU B U-20 Cup of Nations Championship despite their loss to Nigeria in the final.
Ghana fell to the Flying Eagles on Wednesday night as they succumbed to a 1-2 defeat in Lome, Togo.
Nigeria scored twice in the first half before Jerry Afriyie got a goal back for the Satellites in the second half but it was not enough for Ofei’s men to clinch the trophy.
However, their presence in the final secured them qualification to next year’s U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which delights their gaffer.
“Losing nine key players who were crucial to our success at the African Games was a significant blow. But this allowed us to build a new core of young talent, and these boys have stepped up tremendously. They deserve this qualification just as much as anyone else,” Ofei said after the final.
“Qualifying for the U-20 AFCON is a huge achievement for us, especially considering the circumstances. This team faced many challenges, but their determination and commitment have been incredible. I’m proud of each and every one of them.”
Ofei will now look ahead to preparing his team for the AFCON with the Black Satellites making a return to the continental stage for the first time since winning it in 2021.