Rabat: Uganda edged out Ghana's Black Starlets in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup. The match, part of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, took place in Morocco and ended with Uganda triumphing 8-7 on penalties.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Black Starlets kicked off the match with promise, taking an early lead through Eric Adu Gyamfi's goal in the ninth minute. Ghana maintained dominance for much of the first half, showcasing strong play and offensive pressure. However, Uganda's Owen Mukisa brought the game to level terms with a header from a corner kick just before the halftime whistle.
In the second half, Ghana once again took the lead when Abdul Latif Wunzalgu scored, setting the team on a hopeful path towards qualification for the World Cup in Qatar later this year. Yet, the persistent Ugandan team, guided by former Ghanaian international Laryea Kingston, equalized the score after being awarded a crucial penalty with only five minutes remaining in regular time.
The penalty was confidently converted by Ibanda Arafat, bringing the score to 2-2 and pushing the game into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Both teams displayed composure and skill during the shootout, converting most of their chances, but it was Uganda who ultimately prevailed with an 8-7 victory.
The result means that Ghana's Black Starlets will miss out on the opportunity to participate in the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup.