Maxwell Konadu vows major Black Satellites overhaul after WAFU U-20 disappointment

Man in a red Ghana Football Association pullover speaks into a microphone at a press conference against a blue backdrop.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka August 3, 2026

Ghana’s Black Satellites head coach, Maxwell Konadu, has announced plans to rebuild his squad ahead of the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations after the team’s disappointing group-stage exit at the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d’Ivoire.

The Black Satellites ended their campaign with a goalless draw against Togo, a result that saw them finish third in Group B and miss out on a place in the semi-finals.

Speaking after the match, Konadu admitted the team had fallen short of expectations but insisted the tournament had served its purpose by helping the technical team identify players capable of competing at the highest level.

“We came here to win, but it didn’t work out. We will reorganise ourselves. Definitely, we will not present the same team for the AFCON next year,” he said.

The former Ghana international explained that the WAFU tournament was primarily used to assess locally based players in a competitive environment as preparations begin for the continental championship, which Ghana will host in 2027.

“For this tournament, we maintained the home-based boys because we wanted to see what they could offer. Some of them have shown that, given the opportunity, they can really excel,” Konadu added.

Although encouraged by the commitment shown by his players, the coach acknowledged that the team’s overall performances highlighted areas requiring improvement before next year’s tournament.

“We are happy with the team, but not entirely satisfied with the overall performance. They gave everything, but we have seen areas we need to improve,” he said.

Konadu stressed that preparations would now shift towards strengthening the squad through recruitment and increased exposure, which he believes will be crucial if Ghana are to challenge for the title on home soil.

“It is good that we have seen what they can do. Some couldn’t make the mark, while others showed they have what it takes. Now we have to prepare very well because without proper preparation you cannot win tournaments. I think exposure made the difference,”he said.

As hosts of the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana have already secured automatic qualification, giving the Black Satellites technical team time to reshape the squad and build a more competitive side capable of mounting a serious title challenge.