Ghana’s U-20 national team, the Black Satellites, are gearing up for a thrilling challenge at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, having been drawn into Group C alongside formidable opponents: reigning champions Senegal, DR Congo, and the Central African Republic (CAR).
The new draw, conducted by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Sunday, April 13, 2025, was necessitated after Côte d’Ivoire stepped down as the tournament’s host nation.
Set to run from April 27 to May 18, 2025, the tournament will see 13 of Africa’s brightest young footballing nations compete for glory.
The Black Satellites sealed their qualification to the 2025 Africa U20 Africa Cup of Nations after a comeback win over Cote D’voire, in the semi-finals of the WAFU B U20 on October 27, 2024. Demond Ofei’s side came from behind to beat the Ivorians 2-1 at the Stade Municipal and are making a return to the AFCON Championship next year after winning the title in 2021 under Abdul Karim Zito—now with Premier League side Dreams FC.
The teams are organized into three groups: one consisting of five teams and two with four teams each. Progression to the quarter-finals will be determined by the top two teams from each group, supplemented by the two best third-placed teams across all groups, ensuring a fiercely competitive knockout stage.
The CAF U-20 AFCON has a storied legacy as a launchpad for some of Africa’s biggest football stars. Icons like Mohamed Salah, Andre Ayew, and Victor Osimhen have all used this stage to announce their talents to the world, later dazzling audiences on global platforms.
For Ghana, a nation with a rich footballing heritage and past successes in this competition, the Black Satellites will aim to reclaim their place among Africa’s elite while unearthing the next generation of stars.
Group C promises intense battles, with Senegal bringing their championship pedigree, DR Congo showcasing their dynamic flair, and CAR looking to make a mark as a spirited underdog.
The 2025 edition in Egypt is poised to deliver not only high-stakes football but also a vibrant celebration of African youth talent, as these young players vie for continental supremacy and a chance to etch their names into football history.
Full Draw below:
