Essel: Ghana focused on “mission” as Egypt quarter-final looms
Ghana defender Aaron Essel says the Black Satellites are treating their quarter-final clash with hosts Egypt “like a final” as they aim to secure a place in the last four of the TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025.
Ghana head into Monday’s tie at the New Suez Stadium on the back of a confident group stage campaign, where they finished top of Group C after victories over defending champions Senegal and the Central African Republic.
Standing in their way are a resurgent Egypt side buoyed by home support and looking to restore pride after a rollercoaster group stage performance.
But Essel, who has been a defensive rock for Desmond Ofei’s side, says the Black Satellites are locked in and not fazed by the occasion or the setting.
“Preparations have been very good. The entire team is focused, and we’re ready to give our best on the field,” Essel said during Sunday’s pre-match press conference in Suez.
“For us, this is a final. The field will decide which team emerges victorious, and we are determined to make sure it’s Ghana.”
Ghana are chasing a fourth U20 AFCON crown, having last won the title in 2009 – the same year they lifted the FIFA U20 World Cup. With a ticket to the global showpiece in Chile on offer for all semi-finalists, the stakes are high.
Essel stressed the team’s unity and commitment to the plan drawn up by coach Desmond Ofei and his technical team.
“We’re sticking to the game plan laid out by Coach Desmond Ofei. Everyone knows what’s at stake,” he added.
The 20-year-old also addressed the increasing presence of scouts and agents in the stands — a feature of major youth tournaments — but insists the team’s focus is intact.
“Yes, we’re aware that scouts and agents are watching. But we’re not distracted. We’re in Egypt on a mission — to qualify for the World Cup and bring honour to our nation,” Essel affirmed.
Playing against the host nation is often considered an intimidating task, but the young Ghanaian squad is keeping its cool.
“This is football. We’ve prepared adequately and we’re approaching this game with a strong mentality. The mood in camp is calm and focused. There’s no anxiety; everyone is ready.”
Essel also issued a rallying call to Ghanaians, promising the team will leave everything on the pitch to make the country proud.
“We’re not only playing for ourselves; we’re playing for Ghana. We want to leave a legacy and show that we are capable of carrying the torch for Ghana football into the future.”
Kick-off is set for 15:00 GMT on Monday. With a semi-final spot and World Cup qualification on the line, both sides know only one can take the next step on the road to continental glory.