Head coach of the Ghana U-17 national team, Dr. Prosper Nartey Ogum, says his side is fully prepared for a difficult opening encounter against Algeria as the Black Starlets begin their campaign at the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Ghana will face Algeria in their first Group D match on Thursday evening at 7pm in what is expected to be one of the most competitive fixtures of the opening round.
The Black Starlets enter the tournament carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see a return to the country’s glory days in youth football.
Speaking ahead of the game, Ogum acknowledged the challenge awaiting his players but insisted the team is mentally and tactically ready for the contest. “We are expecting a very competitive and tactical game,” Ogum told CAFOnline. “Algeria are a good side with strong organisation both defensively and offensively. Opening matches are always difficult because every team wants to start well.”
The former Asante Kotoko trainer stressed the importance of discipline and concentration, particularly in a tournament where small mistakes can prove costly.
“We must remain disciplined, focused and clinical when opportunities come. I believe it will be a good contest between two strong teams”.
Dr. Prosper N. Ogum, Black Starlets head coach
The Black Starlets head into the competition after an encouraging campaign during the WAFU B qualifiers, where they impressed with several dominant performances before narrowly losing the final to Côte d’Ivoire on penalties.
Ogum believes that experience has strengthened the team ahead of the continental tournament.
Ogum Confident in Squad’s Mentality
According to the coach, the atmosphere within camp has been positive in the lead-up to the tournament opener, with players showing commitment and determination throughout preparations.
“The mood in camp is very positive and focused. The players understand the importance of representing Ghana at this level and they have shown great commitment throughout our preparations. We have worked very hard physically, tactically and mentally, and I believe the team is ready to compete. The boys are motivated and eager to make Ghana proud in our opening game against Algeria.”
Prosper Nartey Ogum
Group D has already been labelled by many as one of the toughest groups in the competition, featuring defending champions Senegal, South Africa and Algeria.
Despite the quality of opposition, Ogum remains confident in his team’s ability to compete strongly. “It is definitely a very competitive group because all four teams deserve to be here and have quality,” he said. “Senegal won the tournament in 2023, Algeria are very organised and South Africa also have a strong football culture. But at this stage of the competition, there are no easy games.”
The Black Starlets are aiming to reconnect with Ghana’s rich tradition in youth football. Ghana remains one of the most successful nations in the history of the U-17 tournament, having won the tournament twice in 1995 and 1999 and have also produced generations of talented players through the competition.
Ogum believes the current squad understands the responsibility that comes with representing the country at youth level but says the players are also determined to create their own legacy.
“The Black Starlets have created great memories in the past and this current generation has an opportunity to write its own chapter in history,” he noted.
As kickoff approaches, attention will firmly be on whether Ghana can make a strong start against an Algeria side known for its tactical discipline and organisation.
With a difficult group ahead, securing a positive result in the opening game could prove crucial to the Black Starlets’ hopes of progressing deep into the tournament.
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