WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship: Spirited Black Starlets look to scale over Benin

The stage is set for another captivating showdown as the National Under-17 side, the Black Starlets, lock horns with Benin in their second group game of the 2024 WAFU Zone B U17 Championship.

With Ghana virtually qualified for the semi-finals and Benin looking to resurrect their campaign after their loss to Ivory Coast, Tuesday’s encounter promises to be a fierce encounter.

The Black Starlets enter the match on the back of their resounding 5-1 victory over Ivory Coast in their opening fixture. In that match, the Black Starlets showcased their attacking prowess and clinical finishing,  setting a formidable and intimidating tone for the tournament.

With no injury concerns in camp, Coach Laryea Kingston’s squad is pregnant with confidence and poised to sustain their winning momentum against Benin.

On the other hand, Benin finds themselves in a do-or-die situation after suffering a defeat to Ivory Coast in their opening match.

With their semi-final hopes hanging in the balance, the Beninois side understands the gravity of the upcoming clash against Ghana.

A victory over Ghana would not only revive their aspirations but also catapult them into contention for a spot in the knockout stages.

Ghana eye total dominance over Benin and a win to top the group in their bid to get to the semi-finals of the championship.

Coach Laryea Kingston is optimistic that his side will put up a good game against Benin and win to secure a ticket to the semi-finals.

“In football, you don’t need to underrate your opponent. We’re favourites and we know that but that will not make us complacent. We have everything to play for because all that Ghanaians are expecting  from us is qualification to the AFCON. We’ll respect our opponents but keep to our principles,” Laryea Kingston said after the team’s final training on Monday.

The strength of the Black Starlets lies in their potent attack, exemplified by their free-scoring performances in recent matches.

Recording impressive 5-1 victories against both Serbia and Kazakhstan in their preparatory games, and recording the same score line against Ivory Coast in the championship, the Black Starlets have demonstrated their ability to find the back of the net with ease.

With the stage set for a thrilling encounter, all eyes will be on the Black Starlets as they seek to assert their dominance and take a step further towards their goal of winning the tournament.

Source: Norvanreports