2026 WAFU B U-17 Championship: Black Starlets beat Benin to reach semi-finals

Ghana’s Black Starlets have secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 WAFU Zone B U17 Championship after beating Benin 3-1 to record their second consecutive victory in the tournament.

Kassim Ocansey’s side made a flying start to the match, with Alidu Issah scoring twice in the opening eight minutes to put Ghana in a commanding position.

The striker opened the scoring after just four minutes before doubling Ghana’s advantage four minutes later, giving the Black Starlets an early cushion.

Benin attempted to fight their way back into the contest and managed to reduce the deficit as the match progressed, putting pressure on the Ghanaian side.

However, Ghana responded by restoring their two-goal advantage through Nii Odoi Tawiah, who finished intelligently after being set up by Prince Apam.

The Black Starlets held on to secure a 3-1 victory, with Issah’s early brace setting the foundation for another impressive performance.

The result confirms Ghana’s place in the semi-finals and strengthens their bid to qualify for the 2027 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The WAFU Zone B U17 Championship serves as the qualifying competition for the continental tournament, with Ocansey and his players now aiming to maintain their momentum as they pursue further success.

Ghana will look to build on their impressive start as the competition progresses, with a place at the 2027 U17 AFCON firmly in their sights.