Playing for Ghana always comes with expectations – Prosper Ogum to Black Starlets ahead of crucial U-17 AFCON opener
Black Starlets coach Prosper Narteh Ogum has urged his players to remain calm and focused as Ghana prepares to begin its campaign at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations against Algeria.
Ghana has been drawn in a difficult Group D alongside Algeria, Senegal and South Africa, with hopes high that the four-time champions can make a strong return to the continental stage.
Speaking ahead of the tournament opener, Narteh Ogum said the team has been working on the mental strength of the players to ensure they are not overwhelmed by the expectations that come with wearing the national colours.
“We constantly remind the players to stay calm and focus on the process rather than the pressure outside,” he told CAFOnline.
“Playing for Ghana always comes with expectations, but we encourage them to see it as motivation instead of fear.”
The former Asante Kotoko coach also stressed the importance of unity, discipline and teamwork as the young side targets success in the competition.
“We are building confidence within the team and helping the players understand that discipline, teamwork and belief are the keys to success,” he added.
The Black Starlets will face Algeria at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
Ghana heads into the tournament hoping to restore its reputation in African youth football and secure qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup later this year.
The team’s performance is expected to provide an early indication of the country’s next generation of football talent as they come up against some of Africa’s strongest youth sides.
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