2026 WAFU B U-17 Championship: Ghana face Ivory Coast in semi-final on Tuesday

The Black Starlets of Ghana will face Ivory Coast in the semi-finals of the 2026 WAFU Zone B U17 Championship on Tuesday, with victory guaranteeing qualification for the 2027 Africa U17 Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The Ivorians secured their place in the last four after drawing 1-1 with Nigeria on Saturday to finish second in Group B, behind Niger.

Ghana, meanwhile, topped Group A with seven points from three matches after recording victories over Togo and Benin before drawing 0-0 with hosts Burkina Faso in their final group fixture.

Kassim Mingle’s side scored four goals and conceded just once during the group stage, underlining their defensive solidity ahead of the crucial encounter.

The semi-final is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT, with both teams seeking a place in the final and automatic qualification for next year’s continental showpiece.

For Ghana, the match presents an opportunity to maintain their unbeaten run and move closer to winning the WAFU Zone B title.

The Black Starlets will, however, face a stern test against an Ivorian side eager to secure its own place at the tournament in Morocco.

With qualification and a place in the final at stake, Ghana will be determined to deliver a strong performance against their West African rivals and strengthen their preparations for the continental competition.

A victory would not only secure the Black Starlets a return to the U17 AFCON but also put them within reach of the regional title.