We know what is at stake – Black Satellites coach Desmond Offei ahead of Benin clash

Black Satellites head coach Desmond Ofei says his side is fully aware of what is at stake as Ghana prepare to face Benin in a make-or-break match in the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Championship on Wednesday at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence.

The match will determine who joins Nigeria in the semi-finals. Ghana have one point after a 1-1 draw with the Flying Eagles, while Benin sit bottom of the group following a 4-1 defeat to the same side. A draw will be enough for the Black Satellites to progress, but Ofei insists his team is not playing for a point.

“We know what’s at stake, and we’re going all out for the win,” Ofei said ahead of the clash. “Benin may have lost heavily to Nigeria, but they played some good football. We must stay focused, aggressive, and prove we deserve to go through.”

After a disappointing campaign at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, Ofei is hoping to steer the team into the knockout stages and rebuild confidence among fans and stakeholders. The coach believes the squad has grown in maturity and is ready to show its potential in front of home supporters.

With pressure mounting and expectations high, Wednesday’s match offers Ofei and his team a chance at redemption and a place in the semi-finals.