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Ghana’s U20 team, the Black Satellites, will kick off their 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign tonight with a tough opening match against DR Congo. The Group C encounter will be held at the Suez Stadium in Egypt, with kick-off set for 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT).
This is the first time Ghana and DR Congo are meeting at the U20 AFCON level. While the two sides have never clashed at this age category, both have rich football histories and are determined to start the tournament strongly.
Ghana: Aiming for a Fifth Title
The Black Satellites are one of the most successful teams in the history of the tournament. They have won the U20 AFCON four times—in 1993, 1999, 2009, and most recently in 2021. Ghana also finished as runners-up in 2001 and 2013.
In their last three tournament openers, Ghana have made strong starts, recording wins over South Africa (2015), Burkina Faso (2019), and Tanzania (2021). Their last outing in Egypt at this level came in 1991, where they finished third after beating Zambia 1-0 in their first match.
Despite their past success, Ghana has struggled with consistency in recent tournaments. In the 2019 edition, they won their opening match but failed to progress after two losses. However, in 2021, they bounced back and went all the way to lift the trophy.
DR Congo: Looking for a Breakthrough
DR Congo are returning to the U20 AFCON for the first time since 2013. They reached the tournament by winning the UNIFFAC regional competition, showing great character along the way. After losing their first match to Congo, they beat Equatorial Guinea 3-1, edged past Cameroon on penalties, and won the final 2-1 against Congo.
Historically, DR Congo has never won a CAF youth title, though they have enjoyed success at the senior level. Their aim now is to follow in the footsteps of Cameroon (1995) and Congo (2007), two Central African teams who have previously lifted the U20 trophy.
In past tournaments, DR Congo has faced West African teams four times, all in group stages—three times against Nigeria and once against Mali—without a win. Their record stands at two draws and two losses.
A Match to Watch
Both teams have a lot to prove. Ghana wants to continue its proud tradition at this level, while DR Congo seeks to make history with a strong tournament run. Fans can expect a competitive game full of youthful energy, passion, and talent.
With everything to play for in Group C, this opening match could set the tone for the rest of the campaign for both sides.
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