‘We are ready’ – Black Starlets coach Laryea Kingston upbeat ahead of Ivory Coast showdown

Former Ghana international and head coach of the national u-17 male, Laryea Kingston has stated that his team is well prepared for the Ivorians test this afternoon. Ghana will open their 2025 U-17 AFCON qualification with a clash against neighbours Ivory Coast in Group A of the WAFU ZONE B tournament.

Scheduled for the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, Laryea’s charges will put weeks of training and preparation to test in front of home supporters.

Speaking ahead of the match, the former Black Stars winger said they are in good shape and will put in their best performance.

“Preparations have been very good and from our last training, the boys are looking very good for the game.”

Despite playing 10 training matches including four international friendlies, the Black Starlets, according to Laryea Kingston are under pressure to qualify. He said because the nation failed to qualify since 2017, there is pressure to right the wrongs now and qualify.

“Yes, we’re under pressure to perform because in the last two editions, we have not been able to qualify. I know Ghanaians expect us to qualify and that puts some pressure on us.”

He praised the preparations for the tournament. Ghana took part in a four-nation European tournament early this month in Russia where they lost only one match and won two.

“There is pressure on us but where we’ve taken the boys to and the preparations we have had, thanks to the FA, we’re ready.”

Key players in the all-talented Black Starlets team include Great Olympics attacker Benjamin Tsevanyo, midfielder Ernest Ofori of Great Somas, Abdulai Nortey, Joseph Narbi and goalkeeper Michael Armah.

The game will kick off at 4 PM. Ghana’s second and final group game is against Benin. Reigning champions, Nigeria are in Group B with Niger, Togo and Burkina Faso.