The Black Satellites of Ghana (U20) startled defending champions Senegal in a 1-0 victory in their second Group C match of the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations at the Suez Stadium on Monday evening.
Ghana head coach Desmond Ofei made two changes to the team that drew 1-1 with DR Congo in the opening group match as Abdul Hakim Sulemana and Andrews Adjabeng dropped out of the starting lineup.
Black Satellites staged a fighting display, and Emmanuel Mensah proved to be the difference maker.
The midfielder scored the winner in the 15th minute, linking up with a perfect connection from Jerry Afriyie to slot past the Senegalese goalkeeper calmly.
The goal paved the way for a disciplined showing from the Ghanaians, who were compact and crisp in the first half.
Senegal, who had to come back from a slow start, dominated possession and piled pressure on the Ghanaians after the break.
However, Ghana’s defense remained resolute, led by goalkeeper Gidios Aseako, who mounted a man-of-the-match display.
The shot-stopper made seven crucial saves to thwart the West African giants, preserving Ghana’s slim lead and earning a well-deserved clean sheet.
Ghana jointly leads Group C alongside DR Congo on four points after the win.
Black Satellites face Central African Republic in their final group match, as Senegal, who are now in a must-win situation, face DR Congo in a decider.