The Black Starlets produced a dominant and free-scoring display to hammer Ivory Coast’s Young Elephants 4–0 in the second leg of their international friendly at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium on Thursday.
The emphatic victory marked a strong response from the Starlets, who had suffered a 2–0 defeat in the first encounter, as they showcased improved sharpness, composure and attacking efficiency to overwhelm their hosts.
The Starlets signaled their intent early in the game, creating multiple chances inside the opening minutes. Their persistence paid off in the fifth minute when Michael Awuli finished off a well-worked set-piece move after Gavi’s flick set him up to give the Starlets a deserved lead.
The visitors continued to pile pressure on the Ivorians, dominating possession and forcing several defensive interventions. Their second goal arrived on the stroke of halftime, with Mark Aboagye displaying individual brilliance to turn his marker before firing home a powerful left-footed strike to make it 2–0 at the break.
Ivory Coast attempted to shift momentum after the restart with a series of substitutions, but Ghana remained firmly in control. Just minutes into the second half, a slick passing move involving Nyantakyi and Mujahid set up Gavi, who calmly slotted home to extend the lead to three.
The Starlets maintained their attacking rhythm, creating further chances as they stretched the Ivorian defence. Their dominance was finally capped late in the game when Clement capitalised on a defensive error to chip in the fourth goal, sealing a comprehensive victory.
Having struggled with finishing in the first friendly, the Black Starlets demonstrated significant improvement in front of goal, converting their dominance into a convincing result that underlined their progress.
The win not only avenges their earlier defeat but also provides a timely confidence boost as the team continues preparations for the upcoming U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will be aiming to make a strong impact.
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