By Kwame Bediako
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially announced a 26-man squad for the Black Satellites ahead of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.
The announcement came less than a day before their opening match against DR Congo, sparking criticism from fans and journalists who have called for greater transparency in player selection for the prestigious tournament.
The squad features a blend of domestic and international talent, including standout players such as forward Jerry Afriyie, currently with CD Lugo in Spain, and attacking midfielder Abdul Aziz Issah of FC Barcelona B. Also named is Dreams FC striker Aziz Musibau, who is expected to play a central role in Ghana’s attack.
The team is led by head coach Desmond Sakyi Ofei, who is tasked with guiding the young squad through the competition.
Based in Suez for the tournament, the Black Satellites are preparing for their first game, scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Suez Stadium. The match against DR Congo will kick off at 18:00 GMT. Ghana has been drawn into Group C and will aim for a top-two finish or a strong third-place showing to advance to the knockout stages.
Ghana qualified for the U-20 AFCON as runners-up in the WAFU Zone B Championship, showcasing their competitive form ahead of the tournament. With the competition also serving as a pathway to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, the Black Satellites are tipped to make a strong impact.
