Ghana inch closer to semi-finals

After an impressive start to the African U-17 Championship, Ghana would line up for her second group game against Eritrea on Wednesday.

A goal from Ransford Osei and Ishmael Yartey's brace ensured that Ghana got off to a 3-1 winning start against Burkina Faso on Sunday.

However, another positive result this time, against the group's less fancied team who conceded eight goals in their first game would inch Ghana closer to a place in the semi finals of the competition.

And with the last four countries in the championship all assured of a place in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, the Black Starlets are braced up for tricky test against the unrated soccer nation who are making their debut in the Under-17 championship.

Ghana coach, Fred Osam Duodu is not looking for a high scoring result but gunning for a win in their second match at the Kegue stadium.

Ahead of Wednesday's second Group B game against Eritrea, Fred Osam Duodu says they are not getting carried away after watching their the opponents pick the ball eights times from the sticks.

“We are taking every match as it comes in its strength. We are not going to be complacent after seeing them (Eritrea) lose heavily. My boys are going to play it just like another game,” Osam Duodu said.

A win for Ghana - two-time African and World Champions, would enhance their chances of qualifying for the FIFA Under-17 tournament that will be held in South Korea this summer.

“The most important thing is to win and secure the three points. At this stage of the competition, winning is the main agenda. It's not about how many goals you score but the points you pick at the group stage.”

Ghana, silver medallist in the last edition of the competition are in the hunt for a third African U-17 title as team coach, Fred Osam Duodu is seeking a second successive crown at the same competition.

All four semi-finalists of the competition will go through to the FIFA Under-17 tournament that will be held in South Korea this summer.