Black Starlets begin WAFU U-17 campaign with narrow win over Togo

Ghana’s Black Starlets opened their campaign at the 2026 WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Togo at the August 4 Sports Stadium in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

David Kwarteng scored the decisive goal in the seventh minute to hand coach Kassim Ocansey’s side all three points as they began their quest to qualify for the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The breakthrough came from a set-piece situation initiated by Abdul Latif Wunzalgu. After Wunzalgu’s free-kick delivery was blocked, captain Abdul Rafiu Issah followed up with an attempt that eventually fell to Kwarteng, who calmly finished to give Ghana the lead.

The Black Starlets continued to push forward, displaying attacking intent and creating several opportunities to extend their advantage. However, their inability to convert the chances meant they had to settle for a narrow win.

Striker Alidu Issah, winger Yaw Acheampong and playmaker Wunzalgu all came close to adding to Ghana’s tally but failed to find the back of the net.

Despite the missed opportunities, the victory provides Ghana with a positive start to the tournament, where the teams are competing for qualification to the 2027 U-17 AFCON.

The result also sends the Starlets to the top of Group A after hosts Burkina Faso and Benin played out a goalless draw in their opening encounter.

Ghana will return to action on Tuesday, October 13, when they face Benin in their second group match.

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