Playmaker Abdu Latif Wunzalgu has returned to the starting line-up as head coach Kassim Ocansey names a strong Black Starlets side for their semifinal clash against Ivory Coast in the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Ghana head into Tuesday afternoon’s encounter determined to secure a place in the final and secure qualification to the continental showpiece. Ocansey has made several changes to his team after rotating his squad in the final Group A fixture against hosts Burkina Faso.

The coach had rested seven players who featured in Ghana’s 3-1 victory over Benin in their second group game, with six of those players returning to the starting line-up for the crucial semifinal encounter against the Ivorians.

Bless Dogah retains his position in goal and will be shielded by a back four comprising Benedict Tano, Daniel Owusu, Abdul Rafiu Issah and Osman Hamid, who returns to the starting team.

In midfield, Yaw Acheampong also returns and will combine with Rushid Swallah, Abdul Latif Wunzalgu and Nii Odoi Tawiah as the Black Starlets look to dominate possession, dictate the tempo and create scoring opportunities against their West African neighbours.

Issah Alidu and Hope Agbase will lead the attack, with Ghana counting on their offensive quality to break down the Ivorian defence and secure victory in the high-stakes encounter.

The WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship serves as the qualifying competition for the 2027 U-17 AFCON, making the semifinal a crucial test for Ocansey’s side. The Black Starlets will be hoping to rise to the occasion against Ivory Coast and keep their continental qualification ambitions firmly on track.

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