By Kwame Bediako
Black Satellites secured a crucial 1-0 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) during their final Group C encounter at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia on May 8, 2025. The result not only cemented their top spot in the group with seven points but also highlighted their ability to adapt and execute under pressure, setting the stage for a confident push into the knockout rounds.
Under the guidance of Coach Desmond Ofei, Ghana made significant tactical adjustments before the match, introducing five new players from the squad that previously defeated Senegal. The substitutions included Ishmael Addo, Andrews Adjabeng, Maxwell Azafokpe, Abdul Sulemana, and Joseph Aidoo, reflecting a deliberate effort to refresh the team’s energy and maintain high intensity throughout the game. These tactical moves proved instrumental in the team’s overall performance and eventual victory.
From the opening whistle, Ghana imposed their dominance on the game, pushing forward with aggressive offense and controlling possession despite a stubborn CAR defense. The Black Satellites created numerous scoring opportunities but struggled with finishing in the first half, partly due to the resilient opposing backline. Their persistence, however, paid off late in the match when Joseph Opoku, a substitute, scored the winning goal in the 84th minute following a precise pass from Joseph Aidoo.
This victory ensures Ghana’s progression to the quarterfinals and highlights their potential as serious contenders. With their tactical resilience and strong team spirit, the Black Satellites are poised to make a significant impact in the knockout stages, aiming to translate their group stage dominance into a tournament -winning performance.
