Ghana’s Black Satellites began their WAFU U-20 Zone B Championship campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Benin, setting the stage for an intense tournament. The match, filled with moments of skill, resilience, and tactical battles, showcased the competitive spirit of both teams.
Ghana started on the front foot, asserting themselves early in the game.
Their attacking intent was rewarded in the 13th minute when forward Jerry Afriyie broke the deadlock.
After a well-coordinated offensive move, Afriyie received a precise pass in the box and calmly slotted the ball past the Benin goalkeeper to give the Black Satellites a 1-0 lead.
The early goal sparked excitement among the Ghanaian players and fans, as they hoped to establish dominance in the match.
However, Benin quickly responded, showing their resilience.
In the 26th minute, they leveled the score with a well-executed free-kick. A perfectly delivered cross from the set-piece found a Benin attacker, who rose above the Ghanaian defenders to power a header into the back of the net.
The equalizer shifted the momentum, with Benin growing in confidence as the match progressed.
Just before the halftime whistle, Benin stunned the Black Satellites again by taking the lead in the 40th minute.
What seemed to be a harmless ball floated into the box unexpectedly flew past everyone, including the Ghanaian goalkeeper, and nestled into the net.
The goal left Ghana trailing 2-1 at the break, with work to do in the second half.
Despite going into the dressing room a goal down, the Black Satellites emerged in the second half with renewed energy and determination.
They pushed relentlessly for an equalizer, applying pressure on Benin’s defense.
However, breaking through Benin’s compact defensive setup proved difficult, as Ghana struggled to find clear opportunities.
Their persistence finally paid off midway through the second half, when Afriyie once again stepped up for Ghana.
With a well-taken finish, the forward found the back of the net, securing his brace and leveling the score at 2-2.
The goal brought the Black Satellites back into contention and reignited their hopes of claiming all three points.
Despite several late attempts from both sides, neither team could find a winner, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw.
It was a game that tested Ghana’s resilience and character, as they battled back from a deficit to earn a valuable point in their tournament opener.
The Black Satellites will now turn their attention to their next group-stage match, eager to build on this performance and advance their ambitions in the WAFU Zone B Championship.
With the determination and attacking flair they displayed, Ghana remains a strong contender for the title, but they know that tougher challenges lie ahead.
