Black Starlets coach Prosper Narteh Ogum says his side is mentally prepared and highly motivated ahead of their opening match at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 against Algeria on Thursday.
The two-time African champions return to the continental stage carrying the expectations of a nation with a rich history in youth football, having previously won the title in 1995 and 1999.
Dr. Ogum guided the Starlets through the WAFU B qualifiers, where the Black Starlets impressed throughout the campaign before narrowly losing to Côte d’Ivoire on penalties in the final.
Drawn in a highly competitive Group D alongside defending champions Senegal, Algeria and South Africa, Ghana face one of the toughest routes to the knockout stages as they seek qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.
The former Asante Kotoko coach believes his side possesses the quality, discipline and mentality needed to compete against Africa’s elite youth teams.
In this exclusive interview with CAFOnline.com, Dr. Ogum discusses Ghana’s preparations, the challenge of Group D, the expectations surrounding the Black Starlets and the importance of youth football development.
CAFOnline.com: Your team is preparing for their opening match against Algeria tomorrow. How would you describe the mood and level of preparation within the squad ahead of such an important start to the tournament?
Dr. Ogum: The mood in camp is very positive and focused. The players understand the importance of representing Ghana at this level and they have shown great commitment throughout our preparations. We have worked very hard physically, tactically and mentally, and I believe the team is ready to compete. The boys are motivated and eager to make Ghana proud in our opening game against Algeria.
CAFOnline.com: The Black Starlets have a proud history in the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON. How important is it for this current generation to reconnect Ghana with its strong tradition in youth football?
Dr. Ogum: It is very important because Ghana has always been recognised as one of the strongest nations in youth football. The Black Starlets have created great memories in the past and this current generation has an opportunity to write its own chapter in history. We constantly remind the players about the legacy they are carrying, but at the same time we encourage them to focus on creating their own identity and success story.
CAFOnline.com: Ghana won the WAFU B qualification campaign in impressive fashion before narrowly losing the final on penalties to Côte d’Ivoire. What positives did you take from that journey into this tournament?
Dr. Ogum: There were many positives from the WAFU B campaign. The team showed character, discipline and consistency throughout the competition. We scored goals, defended well and demonstrated a strong mentality in difficult moments. Even though we lost the final on penalties, it gave us valuable lessons about concentration, composure and game management. Those experiences have helped us improve ahead of this tournament.
CAFOnline.com: Group D is widely considered one of the toughest groups in the competition, with Senegal, South Africa and Algeria. What is your assessment of the group and the challenge ahead?
Dr. Ogum: It is definitely a very competitive group because all four teams deserve to be here and have quality. Senegal won the tournament in 2023, Algeria are very organised and South Africa also have a strong football culture. But at this stage of the competition, there are no easy games. We respect every opponent, but we also believe in our own quality and preparation. Our focus is to take one match at a time and give our best in every game.
CAFOnline.com: Algeria are known for their tactical discipline and organisation. What kind of match are you expecting in your opening fixture?
Dr. Ogum: We are expecting a very competitive and tactical game. Algeria are a good side with strong organisation both defensively and offensively. Opening matches are always difficult because every team wants to start well. We must remain disciplined, focused and clinical when opportunities come. I believe it will be a good contest between two strong teams.
CAFOnline.com: You have worked extensively in youth development football. What has impressed you most about this group of players since you started working with them?
Dr. Ogum: What has impressed me most is their willingness to learn and improve every day. They are hardworking, disciplined and very united as a team. They listen carefully to instructions and always show hunger to develop themselves. Beyond talent, they have shown a strong mentality and commitment, which are very important qualities in modern football.
CAFOnline.com: Ghanaian football fans always expect success at youth tournaments. How are you helping the players manage pressure and expectations at this level?
Dr. Ogum: We constantly remind the players to stay calm and focus on the process rather than the pressure outside. Playing for Ghana always comes with expectations, but we encourage them to see it as motivation instead of fear. We are building confidence within the team and helping the players understand that discipline, teamwork and belief are the keys to success.
CAFOnline.com: The TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON has historically produced future African stars. How important is this competition for the development and future careers of these young players?
Dr. Ogum: This competition is very important because it gives young players the platform to showcase their talent at the highest level in Africa. Many great African footballers started their journeys in this tournament. Beyond results, it is also an opportunity for these players to gain experience, learn professionalism and continue their development. Performing well here can open many doors for their future careers.
CAFOnline.com: Several players in your squad have already attracted attention because of their performances during qualification. Which qualities make this team capable of competing against Africa’s best sides?
Dr.Ogum: This team has a good balance of talent, discipline, teamwork and determination. The players understand each other very well and they are prepared to fight for one another on the pitch. Technically we have quality, tactically we are improving steadily, and mentally the players are showing maturity. These qualities give us confidence that we can compete strongly against any team in the tournament.
CAFOnline.com: Finally, what message would you like to send to Ghanaian supporters ahead of the Black Starlets’ opening match in Morocco?
Dr. Ogum: I want to thank all Ghanaians for their support and encouragement. The players and technical team are fully committed to giving everything for the nation. We ask supporters to continue believing in the team and standing behind the boys throughout the tournament. By the grace of God and with the support of Ghanaians, we hope to make the country proud.
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