Marfo: Senegal clash 'a must-win' as Ghana chase U20 AFCON glory
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Ghana defender Phenyin-Denis Marfo says the Black Satellites' upcoming Group C showdown against Senegal at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations is a "must-win" as the West African giants aim to revive their campaign in Egypt.
Both Ghana and Senegal opened the tournament with 1-1 draws—Ghana against DR Congo and Senegal against the Central African Republic—leaving each side under pressure to secure three points in their second group match to enhance their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.
“This game means everything to us,” Marfo said ahead of the crucial encounter.
“We have set a clear goal — first, to qualify for the U20 World Cup, and second, to bring the trophy back to Ghana. The match against Senegal is crucial in achieving that dream. It is a must-win game.”
Ghana’s U20 team boasts a strong record in the competition, having been crowned champions four times, most recently in 2021 in Mauritania, where they defeated Uganda in the final.
Despite settling for a draw in their opener, Marfo is confident the team is heading in the right direction and called on the Ghanaian public to keep faith in the squad.
“I want Ghanaians to rest assured the trophy is coming home,” he said. “We are working hard every day, we are united, and we know what this means to our country.”
The Black Satellites will face a stern test against defending champions Senegal, but Marfo’s remarks reflect a determined mindset within the camp. With a World Cup ticket and continental glory on the line, the stakes could hardly be higher.
The match is expected to be one of the highlights of the group stage, with two of Africa’s most decorated youth sides battling for supremacy and a crucial three points.
