Black Starlets arrives in Morocco on U-17 AFCON mission …FA boss charges team to make Ghana proud

The Black Starlets, the national U-17 male team, have safely arrived in Casablanca ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team departed Accra on Wednesday, travelling with a 35-man contingent made up of 21 players and 14 officials, all focused on delivering a strong campaign on the continental stage.

They completed a smooth five-hour flight to Morocco, where final preparations will continue before the tournament kicks off.

The technical team is expected to fine-tune tactics and build cohesion among the squad as they gear up for the competition.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Mr Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, was present at the Accra International Airport to bid farewell to the team.

Speaking during a brief farewell at the Airport, the FA President urged the team to carry a ‘never say die’ spirit into the competition.

President Simeon-Okraku emphasised the importance of mental strength and unity, particularly in difficult moments during matches. His message was inspired by the team’s recent friendly encounters against Cote d’Ivoire, where they bounced back strongly after an initial defeat.

“I’m very happy that when you lost to Cote d’Ivoire in your first game during your friendly matches, you were able to bounce back—not only to dominate but to outscore them in the second game,” he said. “I read a lot of meaning into that, and I want all of you to keep that in your heads—that, it’s not over until it’s all over,” he added.

The FA president stressed that the ability to respond positively to setbacks would be crucial in a tournament as competitive as the AFCON.

He encouraged the players to stay united and support one another when the pressure intensifies on the continental stage.

“When the chips are down, that’s when we need to hold each other together,” Okraku added. “So go out there and make Ghana proud.”

Ghana will compete in Group D alongside Algeria, Senegal, and South Africa, with their opening match scheduled for Thursday, May 14.