Aklie Israel and Joanita Borteye Make History as Ghana Ends 35-Year Wait to Beat Egypt at ITTF Africa Youth Championships
The Borteyman Sports Complex erupted in celebration on Day Four of the ITTF Africa Youth Championships and Africa Cup, Accra 2026, as Ghana’s young table tennis stars, Israel Aklie and Joanita Borteye, produced one of the greatest victories in the country’s table tennis history.
In a dramatic U-15 Mixed Doubles quarter-final, the Ghanaian pair fought from start to finish to defeat Egypt’s Asser Sameh and Nada Elbadawy 3-2, securing a place in the semi-finals and guaranteeing Ghana a medal on home soil.
The victory was far more than just a semi-final qualification. It marked the end of a remarkable 35-year wait for Ghana to defeat Egypt in a competitive table tennis medal match, making it one of the most significant moments in the nation’s recent sporting history.
Roared on by an energetic home crowd, Aklie and Borteye made a brilliant start, taking the opening two sets 11-8 and 11-9. Egypt, renowned as Africa’s dominant table tennis nation, responded strongly to claim the next two sets 11-8 and 11-9, forcing the contest into a decisive fifth set.
With history hanging in the balance, the Ghanaian duo displayed outstanding composure, fearless attacking play, and remarkable teamwork. They sealed the deciding set 11-8, sparking wild celebrations inside the Borteyman Sports Complex as the home fans witnessed a historic triumph.
Quarter-final Result (Best of 5)
Ghana 3-2 Egypt
- 11-8
- 11-9
- 8-11
- 9-11
- 11-8
The victory keeps Ghana’s medal hopes alive and underlines the country’s growing strength in youth table tennis. It also serves as a powerful statement that a new generation of Ghanaian players is ready to challenge the continent’s traditional powerhouses.
Following the historic win, Ghana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) President Mawuko Afadzinu expressed his excitement and pride in the achievement.
“It took 35 years. It finally happened. Ghana beats Egypt in a competitive Table Tennis medal match.
The future is here. The future is now. The future is in Ghana.
Thank you Israel and Joanita. Thank you Coach Amartey. Thank you executives, volunteers and our sponsors for believing in the dream. Your sacrifice of love, sweat and resources sprouts good success.
Come on!”
His emotional message reflected not only the significance of the victory but also the years of dedication invested by coaches, administrators, volunteers, sponsors and athletes who have worked tirelessly to elevate Ghanaian table tennis.
As the ITTF Africa Youth Championships and Africa Cup continue in Accra, Aklie and Borteye have already etched their names into Ghana’s sporting history. Their remarkable performance has inspired a nation and demonstrated that Ghana’s investment in youth development is beginning to yield results on the continental stage.
With a semi-final showdown now awaiting them, the young duo carry the hopes of a nation eager to witness another unforgettable chapter in Ghana’s table tennis journey.
The future indeed looks bright—and it is unfolding right here in Accra.