Ghana’s Black Starlets target U17 AFCON glory after long-awaited return

Ghana national under-17 football team are preparing for their return to the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations after nearly a decade away from the continental tournament, with the Black Starlets determined to challenge for the title once again.

Ghana’s last appearance at the competition came in 2017, marking a lengthy absence for one of Africa’s most successful youth football nations.

The Black Starlets have previously lifted the U17 Africa Cup of Nations trophy twice, winning the competition in 1995 and 1999.

However, despite maintaining a regular presence in youth football over the years, Ghana have struggled to return to the summit of African football at this level.

Now preparing for their eighth appearance at the tournament, the objective for the team is clear as they seek to rebuild their reputation on the continental stage and compete for another title.

The challenge facing Ghana will not be straightforward, with the Black Starlets drawn into a difficult first-round group alongside reigning champions Senegal national under-17 football team, as well as Algeria and South Africa.

Senegal enter the tournament as one of the favourites after winning the previous edition of the competition, making Ghana’s clash against the defending champions one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage.

The Black Starlets will begin their campaign against Algeria national under-17 football team on Thursday, May 14 at 8:00 PM before facing Senegal on Sunday, May 17 at 5:00 PM.

Ghana will then conclude their group-stage fixtures against South Africa national under-17 football team on Wednesday, May 20 at 8:00 PM as they aim to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.

The return of the Black Starlets to the continental stage has generated excitement among Ghanaian football supporters, particularly given the country’s rich history in youth football competitions.

After years away from the tournament, expectations are rising once again around a team eager to restore Ghana’s status among the strongest nations in African youth football.

With difficult matches awaiting them in the opening round, the Black Starlets now face an important test as they attempt to begin a new chapter at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

⚽️ Sharp, focused and enjoying every moment. 🤩

🇬🇭 #BlackStarlets in the groove ahead of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. 🏆#TotalEnergiesAFCONU17 pic.twitter.com/GpXPnACFWj

— 🇬🇭 Ghana Football Association (@ghanafaofficial) May 11, 2026