Ghana’s U-20 men’s national team, the Black Satellites, began their preparations for the upcoming 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-1 defeat to Zambia in a friendly match played behind closed doors at the Tolip Gardens Sports Complex in Egypt.
The encounter served as a key tactical test for both teams ahead of the tournament, which kicks off on April 27 and runs until May 18, 2025.
Zambia struck first in the 21st minute through Pascal Phiri of ZESCO United, who dribbled past Ghana’s backline with a superb solo effort to put the Junior Chipolopolo ahead. Phiri’s performance underlined his potential as one of the standout players to watch at the upcoming tournament.
Ghana responded after the break, with Aziz Yeti Mizbawu leveling the score in the 54th minute following a well-worked team move. The goal sparked renewed energy in the Black Satellites’ camp, as they pushed forward in search of a winner.
However, it was Zambia who had the final say. In the 90th minute, David Simukonda capitalized on a defensive error to slot home the match-winner, sealing a morale-boosting victory for the Zambians.
Zambia’s goalkeeper Levison Banda also stood out, producing several crucial saves in the dying moments to preserve the lead.
For Ghana and head coach Desmond Ofei, the result offers important lessons—especially in tightening the defense—as they prepare for a challenging group C campaign in Suez. The Black Satellites are set to face D.R. Congo on May 2, Senegal on May 5, and Central African Republic on May 8.
Ghana, who last won the U-20 AFCON title in 2021, will be aiming not only to reclaim continental glory but also to secure one of the four available qualification slots for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
