Ghana’s U20 side showed strength and resilience in their opening match at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, battling to a 1-1 draw against DR Congo on Friday evening in Egypt.
The Black Satellites conceded early when Samuel Ntanda found the net for DR Congo in the 16th minute, finishing off a neat pass from Messy Manitu. But Ghana responded quickly, with Musibau Aziz slotting home the equaliser just nine minutes later, following a smart assist from Emmanuel Mensah.
Both teams fought hard in midfield as the game wore on, with tactical changes coming early in the second half. DR Congo made the first substitution before Ghana adjusted their setup, hoping to take control.
The match remained competitive until the final whistle, with neither side able to break the deadlock. Ghana’s backline stood firm against late pressure from the Congolese.
The draw leaves Group C evenly balanced after the first round, with all four teams on a point each.
Abdul Hakim Sulemana earned the Man of the Match award for a commanding display.