Ghana's national U17 team, the Black Starlets have landed in Côte d’Ivoire ahead of the 2025 WAFU Zone B U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where Ghana will battle for a spot at next year’s continental showpiece.

Ghana opens its campaign on Saturday, September 20, against Togo at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro. Kick-off is at 6:00 p.m. GMT.

The Starlets will then face host nation Ivory Coast on Tuesday, September 23 (6:00 p.m. GMT), before wrapping up their Group A fixtures with a decisive clash against Niger on Friday, September 26 (3:00 p.m. GMT).

The qualifiers double as the official pathway to the 2025 U-17 AFCON, with the top-performing sides securing tickets to the continental championship.

For Ghana, a two-time FIFA U-17 World Cup winner, the tournament offers an opportunity to reassert dominance in African youth football after years of fluctuating fortunes.

Head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum is optimistic about his team’s chances, pointing to the hard work and dedication shown in camp.

“We have had a very productive camp, and the players have shown great commitment. We are going to Côte d’Ivoire determined to compete and make Ghanaians proud,” Ogum said.

The technical team has stressed discipline, teamwork, and resilience as the pillars of their strategy, with final fine-tuning set to continue in Yamoussoukro ahead of Saturday’s opener.

With Ghana’s rich history at youth level, the Black Starlets will be eager to rediscover their glory days and take a giant step toward reclaiming their place among Africa’s finest.