Ghana U20 coach Jimmy Cobblah expects his side to make a winning start against Burkina Faso on Sunday in the CAF U20 Cup of Nations.
The Black Satellites have been in Niamey, Niger the past two weeks trimming the rough edges for the start of the tournament.
They drew 1-1 with local side Sahel FC but before that they got beaten 2-0 by hosts Niger.
Despite recording unconvincing results in pre-tournament friendlies, Cobblah insists beating Burkina Faso is non-negotiable.
"I'm expecting the boys to come out strongly in all aspects to win as we help them on the touchline. As you know, it is the first match of the tournament and a must-win game for us,'' the former Inter Allies coach told Graphic Sports.
"I have been able to know them a bit but don’t forget every team in the group has to be taken seriously and we are focused on doing just that.
"It's [preparation] going well as the understanding is growing, as well as the love for one another which goes with team spirit."
Ghana will also play Senegal and Mali in Group B.