Ghana’s Black Starlets have qualified for the semi-finals of the 2026 WAFU B U17 Championship after securing a convincing 3-1 victory over Benin to record their second consecutive win in the competition.
Head coach Kassim Ocansey’s side made a blistering start to the encounter, with striker Alidu Issah scoring twice within the opening eight minutes to put Ghana in control.
Issah opened the scoring in the fourth minute before doubling Ghana’s advantage just four minutes later, giving the Starlets an early cushion and putting Benin under immediate pressure.
The Ghanaian youngsters continued to threaten going forward, but Benin fought back into the contest and managed to reduce the deficit as the match progressed.
However, the Starlets responded strongly to restore their two-goal advantage. Nii Odoi Tawiah finished intelligently after being set up by Prince Apam to score Ghana’s third goal and strengthen their grip on the encounter.
The goal proved crucial as Ocansey’s team went on to secure a 3-1 victory, confirming their place in the last four of the regional competition.
The WAFU Zone B U17 Championship serves as the qualifying competition for the continental tournament, making progression an important objective for all participating teams.
With their semi-final place secured, the Black Starlets will now turn their attention to the next stage as they seek to maintain their winning momentum and move closer to a place at the 2027 U17 AFCON.
