Ghana’s U-20 national team, the Black Satellites, concluded their group stage campaign at the ongoing U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a dramatic late victory over the Central African Republic (CAR), courtesy of a match-winning goal from substitute Joseph Opoku.
The Belgium-based forward came off the bench to net the decisive goal in the 84th minute, securing a 1-0 win for Desmond Ofei’s side and ensuring they finished top of Group C with seven points from three games.
Heading into the encounter, Ghana were unbeaten, having played out a draw against DR Congo and secured a narrow 1-0 win over Senegal.
CAR, meanwhile, had picked up just one point from their opening two games, drawing with Senegal and losing to DR Congo.
The Black Satellites dominated much of the first half and created several chances, with Barcelona B midfielder Abdul Aziz Issah finding himself at the center of most of the opportunities.
Despite their control, Ghana were unable to break the deadlock before halftime.
The pattern continued after the break, with Ghana pressing for an opener but failing to convert until late in the game.
In the 84th minute, Opoku latched onto a long ball from Ishmael Addo, outpaced his markers, and calmly slotted a low shot past the CAR goalkeeper to give his team a deserved lead.
Ghana held firm in the final minutes to preserve their advantage and claim all three points, ensuring they topped Group C ahead of their quarter-final clash.
With the win, the Black Satellites advance to the knockout stage, where they will face one of the best third-placed teams from Group A or B as they continue their pursuit of continental glory.
