The Ghana Black Satellites claimed a dominant 1-0 win over the Central African Republic (CAR) in their final Group C fixture at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The victory confirmed Ghana topped the group with seven points, vouching for their dominance at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
Coach Desmond Ofei brought on the substitutes prior to the encounter, effecting five substitutions in the side that defeated Senegal on Monday.
The likes of Ofori McCarthy, Emmanuel Mensah, Denis Marfo, Joseph Amankwaah, and Jerry Afriyie - who has since left for Spain to resume with his club - were replaced by Ishmael Addo, Andrews Adjabeng, Maxwell Azafokpe, Abdul Sulemana, and Joseph Aidoo.
From the very first whistle, Ghana set the pace of affairs, taking the initiative and driving their rivals back.
Black Satellites played relentless pressure and were pressed to get the game underway earlier owing to wasteful finishing and gritty CAR defense.
The breakthrough was finally achieved in the 84th minute. A beautifully weighted pass by Joseph Aidoo set free substitute Joseph Opoku, who made no mistake with a composed finish to give Ghana the well-deserved lead.
The goal capped a dominating performance by the Ghanaians, who were incisive and concentrated from start to finish.
This win not only secures the Black Satellites a quarterfinal spot but also sends a strong message to their opponents regarding their title ambitions.