Ghana’s U17 national team, the Black Starlets, have returned home to a hero’s welcome following their impressive showing at the 2025 WAFU B U17 Boys Championship in Côte d’Ivoire.
The team, led by head coach Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum, touched down in Accra to cheers from officials of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and management members who gathered to celebrate their achievement.
The young side captured hearts across the continent with their spirited performances, finishing second in the regional competition and, in the process, securing qualification for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be staged in Morocco.
The Starlets were praised for their quality, discipline, and determination throughout the tournament, attributes that earned them a well-deserved silver medal after a hard-fought run to the final.
Members of the GFA’s Executive Council later visited the team’s hotel to officially welcome the players and technical staff, commending them for restoring hope and pride to Ghana’s youth football.
In recognition of their efforts, both the players and coaching team received undisclosed but significant financial rewards from the GFA.
Speaking after their arrival, team officials expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to build on their success as preparations begin for next year’s continental championship.
The Black Starlets’ return marks not only the end of a memorable WAFU campaign but also the beginning of Ghana’s renewed pursuit of glory in African youth football.
