WE GOT OUR TACTICS RIGHT AGAINST SENEGAL-BLACK SATELLITES HEAD COACH

Ghana's U-20 national team head coach, Desmond Ofei, has expressed satisfaction with his side’s tactical approach in their 1-0 win over Senegal during the 2023 African Games semifinal at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Acknowledging the quality of the Senegalese team, Ofei noted that it was a tough encounter and praised his players for executing the game plan effectively. “It was a very difficult match; we had great respect for Senegal,” he said.

Ofei admitted that he expected a more possession-based style from the Young Teranga Lions but was surprised by their reliance on long balls. “We weren’t really under threat. Their decision to go long was unexpected, but we dealt with it well,” he added.

The coach credited his team’s preparation and discipline for their ability to neutralize Senegal’s threats and secure a spot in the final against Uganda.

Looking ahead to the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, Ofei emphasized the need to build on recent successes while addressing past shortcomings. He highlighted Ghana’s deep talent pool, including promising players from the lower divisions, as a key asset for the future.

To boost readiness for the AFCON, the Black Satellites have been involved in rigorous preparations, including a four-nation tournament in Morocco and several friendly matches. Ghana has been drawn into Group A alongside hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, DR Congo, and a team from the Central African region. The tournament is scheduled to run from April 26 to May 18, 2025.

With a storied youth football legacy that includes four U-20 AFCON titles and a FIFA U-20 World Cup triumph in 2009, Ghana is aiming to reclaim continental glory. Coach Ofei's focus on tactical awareness and comprehensive preparation reflects the team’s ambitions for success.