Ghana’s U-20 men’s national team, the Black Satellites, began their preparations for U-20 AFCON 2025 with a 2-1 defeat to Zambia at the Tolip Gardens Sports Complex in Egypt.
The friendly match, played behind closed doors, served as a crucial tactical test ahead of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off on April 27 and runs until May 18, 2025. Both teams used the game to assess their squads and strategies before the tournament begins in earnest.
Zambia opened the scoring in the 21st minute through Pascal Phiri, a dynamic forward from ZESCO United. Phiri’s solo run sliced through Ghana’s defense, putting the Junior Chipolopolo ahead and showcasing why he’s a player to watch at U-20 AFCON 2025.
Despite the setback, Ghana fought back in the second half. Aziz Yeti Mizbawu equalized in the 54th minute after a flowing move, sparking hopes of a comeback for the Black Satellites.
However, Zambia had the last word. In the 90th minute, David Simukonda pounced on a defensive lapse to fire home the winning goal, handing Zambia a confidence-boosting win ahead of the tournament.
Zambia’s goalkeeper Levison Banda also impressed, pulling off several key saves as Ghana pushed forward in the final minutes.
This loss highlights areas for improvement for head coach Desmond Ofei, especially in defense, as Ghana prepares for a tough Group C campaign at U-20 AFCON 2025. The Black Satellites will face D.R. Congo on May 2, Senegal on May 5, and the Central African Republic on May 8—all matches set to be played in Suez, Egypt.
Ghana last won the U-20 AFCON title in 2021 under coach Abdul Karim Zito. With a strong legacy to uphold, they’ll be aiming not only for continental glory but also for one of the four qualification slots to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
