“It is a golden ticket, everybody wants this ticket, and I’m sure the host nation will do everything in their ability to win the game.”
These were the comments of Black Satellites head coach Desmond Ofei during his press conference ahead of Monday’s U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal clash against Egypt.
Ghana face the host nation in a fight for a spot in the final four of the continental competition, with the importance of the game all written in their minds.
Ofei’s side has had a brilliant start to the competition with two wins and one draw from three games in the group stage, where they faced DR Congo (1-1), defending champions Senegal (1-0) and Central African Republic (1-0).
It’s a performance they would take upon their return to the competition since 2021. And while the performances have not been the best, the result has gone their way.
Egypt, last-minute hosts, stayed in the competition courtesy of their 1-0 win over Tanzania in their final group game.
Having been in Group A, which had five teams, Egypt played four games, winning two, losing one and drawing the other.
Throughout the tournament, Egypt have relied on the home crowd to find their feet. Head coach Osama Nabih is hoping to reward them for their relentless cheers.
“We’re going through difficult circumstances due to injuries and fatigue,” Nabih admitted.
“But we are armed with a fighting spirit and determined to make the fans happy. We know the importance of this match—it is our chance to qualify for the World Cup after 12 years.”
The two teams know that a World Cup ticket is at stake, and that would be the extra motivation they would need aside from playing in the semis.
For Ghana, they hoping to make a return to the global stage for the first time since 2015, while Egypt’s last appearance at the World Cup was 12 years ago.
Despite playing a game more, Egypt have the same number of goals scored (3) as Ghana, while they have also conceded three goals (4) more than Ghana has (1).
Ghana will be boosted by the return of star man Jerry Afriyie to the squad after his departure to CD Lugo after the first two group games.
For players, some of these tournaments are opportunities to sell themselves to the global stage, with lots of scouts present in Egypt.
But for Ghana’s Aaron Essel, there is more at stake than just clubs keeping an eye. They carry the moods of a whole nation on their shoulders.
“There’s talk of scouts and agents watching, but that’s not our focus. We’re here in Egypt on a mission to qualify for the World Cup and make Ghana proud,” he said at the pre-match presser.
“We’re not just playing for ourselves; we’re playing for Ghana. We want to leave a legacy.”
Whether his comments are ones that can be achieved or not, 90 minutes or more in Suez would be the best time to determine.
Kickoff for the game is scheduled for 15:00 GMT.
