With the CAF U-20 AFCON in Egypt approaching, Ghana’s coach Desmond Ofei stresses a gradual path to victory, focusing on winning the tournament and securing World Cup qualification.
In his interview, Ofei emphasized to CAFOnline.com the importance of progressing beyond the group stage.
“We’ll do it in stages.”
It’s a calculated, sensible strategy that respects the opponent’s abilities and Ofei’s process prioritization over pressure.
Despite a successful youth history, including four U-20 AFCON titles and a 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup victory, Ghana’s current team isn’t relying on past achievements.
They’re concentrating on each game to build momentum.
“Of course, the long-term aim is to win the tournament and qualify for the U-20 World Cup,” Ofei acknowledged, “but we’ll do that by staying consistent and focused on the process.”
The plan is ambitious but straightforward: make it through the group stage, secure a semifinal berth (and World Cup qualification), and win the championship.
Ghana’s Group C placement, alongside Senegal, DR Congo, and the Central African Republic (including the defending champions), demands immediate preparedness.
Ofei’s focus is restoring Ghana’s prominence in African youth football; winning is secondary.
His strategy centers on strong tactics, teamwork, and focusing on each game individually. He minimizes distractions and avoids planning too far ahead.
The coach’s humility is evident to players and fans alike. The difference is mindset, not mission.
Should Ghana proceed step-by-step, the Black Satellites could potentially triumph once more and reach the summit again.