Ghana’s Black Starlets were forced to settle for a disappointing 2-2 draw against Algeria after throwing away a two-goal lead in their opening Group D fixture at the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The young Ghanaians made a lightning start to the contest and found the breakthrough just two minutes into the game through Yao Gavi Robinho. The forward reacted quickest inside the penalty area to finish calmly and hand the Black Starlets an early advantage.
Ghana continued to dominate the opening stages and doubled their lead eight minutes later thanks to a stunning effort from Eric Adu Gyamfi. The midfielder noticed the Algerian goalkeeper off his line and produced a sensational long-range strike from around the halfway line that flew straight into the net.
The spectacular goal handed Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum’s side complete control of the game, with the Black Starlets creating several more chances before the break.
Despite their attacking dominance, Ghana failed to capitalize on a number of clear opportunities, a missed chance that would later prove costly as Algeria gradually fought their way back into the contest.
The hosts emerged for the second half with greater urgency and intensity, putting consistent pressure on the Ghanaian defence as they searched for a response.
Their persistence paid off before the 70th minute as Algeria struck twice to erase Ghana’s advantage and rescue a point from a game that initially appeared to be slipping away from them.
The result leaves the Black Starlets with work to do in Group D, where they will also face Senegal and South Africa in the race for qualification to the knockout stage.