The recently concluded WAFU Zone B U20 Boys Championship, hosted at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, Ghana, has been widely hailed as one of the best-organized and most competitive youth tournaments the sub-region has witnessed in recent years. With seven West African nations participating, the tournament provided a perfect blend of elite-level youth football, logistical excellence, and a showcase of future stars of African football.
Ivory Coast emerged champions, defeating Nigeria 1-0 in a tense and tactical final, while host nation Ghana claimed the bronze medal with an assured 2-0 victory over Niger in the third-place playoff. The event featured Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, Ivory Coast, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Togo, with Benin, Togo, and Burkina Faso exiting at the group stage. Ivory Coast’s clinical consistency from start to finish made them worthy winners, triumphing in all five of their matches.
ORGANIZATION
A key talking point from the tournament was its exceptional organization, made possible largely due to the centralized hosting model. All participating teams were housed at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, eliminating the need for long travel distances for training or matches.
With training grounds and match venues within walking distance, the WAFU Zone B Secretariat significantly reduced costs on accommodation and transportation—an approach that was both efficient and sustainable. Additionally, the medical and security arrangements were exemplary. A resident clinic staffed with professional doctors, two ambulances on standby, and the proactive work of the Head of Safety and Security ensured the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
STANDARD OF PLAY
From a footballing perspective, the quality of play was extremely high, particularly from the semi-finalists. Ivory Coast, underpinned by tactical discipline and individual brilliance, beat Burkina Faso (2-1), Niger (1-0), Togo (2-0), Ghana (2-1 in the semi-final), and Nigeria (1-0 in the final) to lift the trophy. Nigeria, after a 1-1 draw with Ghana and a commanding 4-1 win over Benin, overcame Niger on penalties in the semi-finals.
Impressively, every team in the tournament managed to score at least a goal, a testament to the attacking intent and technical growth of football in the region. Coaches, especially Younes Zerdouk of Ivory Coast, Aliyu Zubair of Nigeria, Desmond Ofei of Ghana and Abdulrahamane Issah of Niger also demonstrated tactical maturity, with their in-game adjustments often swinging matches.
FUTURE STARS
The tournament further offered a launchpad for emerging stars. Ivory Coast captain Abdul Gouddousse Bamba, midfield maestros Ali Kone, Yaya Tape, and Modibo Fofana, along with defender Zakaria Tindano, stood out for the champions.
Ghana’s Aziz Misbau emerged as one of the tournament’s brightest stars, netting three goals, assisting twice, and earning two MVP awards. He was ably supported by the likes of Ishmail Addo, Benjamin Tsivanyo, Bless Ege, and Raymond Acheampong.
Nigeria’s roster also impressed, with captain Kolocho-Bameyi Daniel, Uchechukwu Oliseh, and Bidemi Amole shining throughout. Niger’s Abdul Jelil Ahamat, along with Goumey and Djadje Oumarou, earned plaudits for their energetic displays. Even nations that exited early unearthed future stars—Togo’s Kokou Doto and Kossi Achiangbon, and Burkina Faso’s Arsene Zinaba, are names to remember.
OFFICIATING
Importantly, the tournament also benefited from top-notch officiating, with referees and assistant referees maintaining high standards and ensuring games were played without controversy. Their consistency allowed matches to flow smoothly and fairly, enhancing the overall quality of the event.
The success of the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Boys Championship is a credit to the entire WAFU Zone B team, especially the Executive Director, Philippe Kyere. From logistics to competition level, medical preparedness to security detail, and talent exposure to officiating, the championship ticked every box.
As the curtain falls on this memorable tournament, attention now turns to how best the participating nations will build on this platform to develop the next generation of African football icons.