Jerry Afriyie has left Ghana’s U20 national team camp ahead of their decisive U20 Africa Cup of Nations group-stage clash against the Central African Republic, returning to his Spanish club CD Lugo.
The 18-year-old striker flew out of Egypt on Wednesday morning following a mutual agreement between the Ghana Football Association and CD Lugo, marking an early end to his tournament participation.
The Spanish side had initially been reluctant to release Afriyie due to their ongoing struggle in Spain’s lower divisions, but eventually permitted the forward to join the national team for the start of the campaign.
Afriyie’s short but impactful spell at the tournament has drawn considerable praise. After being introduced as a substitute in Ghana’s opening 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, he delivered a standout performance in the second match, where he set up Emmanuel Mensah’s winning goal in a 1-0 victory over title-holders Senegal.
That contribution not only highlighted his technical intelligence and quick decision-making but also helped keep Ghana’s qualification hopes alive going into the final round of group fixtures.
His departure comes as a blow to head coach Desmond Ofei, who now finds himself without one of his most dynamic and decisive players in attack.
Afriyie has been a vital part of the team over the past two years, becoming known for his explosive pace, sharp vision, and crucial interventions in tight matches.
His chemistry with fellow forwards and his ability to influence games from the bench have made him one of the standout young players in Ghana’s setup.
While Afriyie’s absence is a setback, the squad remains optimistic about their chances of advancing. Ghana currently sit well-placed in Group C and will face the Central African Republic with a spot in the knockout stages still very much within reach. Coach Ofei is expected to turn to his bench for alternatives, hoping the remaining forwards can step up in a match of such high stakes.
The decision to send Afriyie back to CD Lugo reflects the delicate balance national teams must navigate when managing young talents who are also crucial to their club sides.
CD Lugo’s need for reinforcements in their survival campaign in Spain prompted early discussions, and the eventual agreement allows Afriyie to return at a pivotal time for his club, while having still contributed to his country’s efforts on the continental stage.
As the tournament progresses without him, Afriyie’s brief involvement will be remembered as a meaningful contribution to Ghana’s pursuit of U20 continental glory.
With his continued development in Spain, he is widely expected to remain a key figure in Ghana’s youth and senior setups in the years to come.
Ghana’s match against the Central African Republic will now proceed with a reshuffled attacking line, and the spotlight will turn to other emerging talents to carry the team into the quarter-finals.
