By Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s under-20 national team, the Black Satellites, saw their Africa Cup of Nations journey come to an emotional and dramatic conclusion on Monday, May 12, 2025, after a narrow 5-4 penalty shootout loss to host nation Egypt at the Suez Stadium. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Ghana fighting back from a two-goal deficit to force extra time, only to be denied a semi-final spot and a ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
The game got off to a disastrous start for Ghana, as defensive errors in the first half handed Egypt an early advantage. Egyptian striker Moamen Goweily Sherif capitalized on these lapses, scoring twice within minutes. His first goal in the 19th minute was a result of a miscommunication between Ghana’s defender McCarthy Ofori and goalkeeper Gidios Aseako, allowing Sherif an easy finish. He struck again shortly after, exploiting another defensive mix-up to put Egypt ahead in the tense opening stages.
Despite the early setbacks, the Black Satellites demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit. Just before halftime, Abdul Aziz Issah fired a powerful shot past Egypt’s goalkeeper Abdelmonem Tamer, pulling Ghana back into the game and igniting hopes of a comeback. The team continued to press forward, and their efforts paid off deep into stoppage time when substitute Abdul Hakim Sulemana calmly converted a penalty, leveling the score and sending the match into extra time.
The momentum was short-lived, however, as Ghana faced a crucial setback when defender Aaron Essel received a controversial red card in the 107th minute of extra time, leaving the Black Satellites to play with ten men. Despite this disadvantage, Ghana held firm, resisting Egypt’s attempts to score and pushing the match to penalties. Unfortunately, in the tense shootout, Egypt maintained their composure and edged out Ghana 5-4, ending their campaign just shy of semi-final qualification.
