Ghana’s U20 national team delivered a massive upset on Monday evening, defeating defending champions Senegal 1-0 in their second Group C match at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations (U-20 AFCON) at the Suez Stadium.
Head coach Desmond Ofei made two tactical changes from the side that drew 1-1 with DR Congo, bringing in fresh faces as Abdul Hakim Sulemana and Andrews Adjabeng were dropped from the starting lineup.
The match’s decisive moment came early, as midfielder Emmanuel Mensah coolly slotted home in the 15th minute after latching onto a beautifully weighted through ball from Jerry Afriyie. That early breakthrough allowed the Black Satellites to tighten their defense and control the pace.
Senegal, known for their attacking flair, dominated possession in the second half and ramped up the pressure, but Ghana’s backline stood firm. Goalkeeper Gidios Aseako was the hero of the night, making seven crucial saves and earning a deserved clean sheet and man-of-the-match honors.
With this win, Ghana moves to four points, sitting jointly at the top of Group C alongside DR Congo. The Black Satellites now face the Central African Republic in their final group-stage clash, while Senegal, desperate to keep their title hopes alive, must win their decider against DR Congo.
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One goal is enough for Ghana to get past Senegal! ✅🇬🇭#TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 | #GHASEN pic.twitter.com/3z4ZquIQoE
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 5, 2025Earlier in the day, DR Congo boosted their knockout-stage ambitions with a commanding 3-1 win over Central African Republic. After falling behind early to a 10th-minute strike from Raphael Nzabakomada, DR Congo fought back through a brace by Noah Makanza and a late header from Samuel Ntanda, sealing three vital points.
DR Congo coach Guy Bukasa praised his team’s focus and aggression, which proved key in outmuscling CAR. The Leopards now look ahead to their decisive final group stage U-20 AFCON match against the wounded champions, Senegal, still unbeaten and brimming with confidence.
