Ghana shows improvement in U-20 AFCON victory over struggling Senegal
- Andrew Olsson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Ghana's Black Satellites joined DR Congo at the top of Group C at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt following Monday's 1-0 victory over Senegal at the Suez Stadium.
Rising Ghanaian star Jerry Afriyie set up attacking cohort Emmanuel Mensah for the only goal of the match in the 15th minute. A misplayed clearance by the Senegalese defense allowed Afriyie to collect the ball 25 yards from goal and he set up Norway-based forward Mensah for a tidy finish.
It was a driven Ghana side on display after a physical and hard fought draw against DR Congo in their opening match. Clearly motivated with the task of facing the defending champions, the Black Satellites seized control early and were rewarded for a spirited start to the match with Mensah's opener.
Afriyie took advantage of another opportunity soon after but his shot was blocked after attempting to round Senegal goalkeeper Mouhamed Sissokho.
Senegal bounced back and created a couple of chances but lacked finishing. The closest Les Lionceaux came to equalizing came when a free kick service into the penalty area saw Ghana defender McCarthy Ofori head just wide of his own goal.
But Senegal never got into gear and struggled to push for their goal in the second half. The most dangerous chance for Ghana keeper Gidios Aseako came late on when a tame header was easily handled before a free kick attempt rolled into his arms without much trouble.
Now Ghana will attempt to win the group on Thursday when they face Group C bottom side Central African Republic. Senegal have tough work ahead when they face a formidable DR Congo side on the same day with the Congolese also eager to win the group.
Group C Table (2 matches played)
Points | |
DR Congo | 4 |
Ghana | 4 |
Senegal | 1 |
Central African Republic | 1 |
The group winners and runners-up qualify for the quarterfinals.
The two best third place finishers from the three groups qualify for the quarterfinals.
