Ghana’s Black Starlets have booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship after securing a convincing 3-1 victory over Benin in their Group A encounter.
The young Ghanaian side delivered a commanding performance, with Issah Alidu scoring twice in the opening nine minutes before Nii Tawiah Odoi sealed the victory with a late goal to confirm Ghana’s progression to the last four.
Alidu strikes twice in blistering start
Ghana wasted little time asserting their authority, as Alidu opened the scoring just three minutes into the contest, giving the Black Starlets an early advantage.
The forward struck again in the ninth minute to complete his brace and put Ghana firmly in control of the encounter. His quick-fire double provided the perfect platform for the Black Starlets to dictate the game and strengthen their push for a semi-final place.
Benin responded with a goal of their own to reduce the deficit to 2-1, raising the stakes as the contest progressed. However, Ghana remained determined to protect their advantage and keep their qualification hopes firmly on course.
Odoi seals Ghana’s progression
With Benin seeking a way back into the game, Ghana delivered the decisive blow in the 80th minute through Nii Tawiah Odoi, who found the back of the net to extend the lead to 3-1.
Odoi’s late strike settled the contest and ensured the Black Starlets finished the encounter with a two-goal cushion, underlining their attacking threat in a crucial group-stage fixture.
The victory marks an important milestone in Ghana’s campaign at the regional tournament, with the team now advancing to the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of the WAFU Zone B U-17 title.
The Black Starlets will look to build on this performance and carry their momentum into the knockout stage as the competition intensifies.
Match details
2026 WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship — Group A
FULL-TIME: Benin U17 1-3 Ghana U17
Ghana goal scorers:
- Issah Alidu — 3’
- Issah Alidu — 9’
- Nii Tawiah Odoi — 80’
Result: Ghana qualify for the semi-finals.