We will need good preparation to win U-20 AFCON next year - Black Satellites coach Maxwell Konadu

Black Satellites head coach Maxwell Konadu has called for a comprehensive preparation programme ahead of next year's U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), insisting that Ghana must improve its international exposure if it hopes to challenge for the continental title.

Konadu's remarks follow Ghana's disappointing exit from the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d'Ivoire, where the Black Satellites failed to progress beyond the group stage after collecting just two points from three matches.

The four-time African champions began their campaign with a defeat to Nigeria before recording back-to-back draws against Burkina Faso and Togo.

Ghana entered their final Group B fixture knowing only a victory over Togo would keep their qualification hopes alive but were held to a goalless draw at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro on Sunday, ending their campaign prematurely.

Attention has now turned to next year's U-20 AFCON, which Ghana is set to host as part of activities marking the country's 70th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

Speaking after the draw with Togo, Konadu expressed satisfaction with the commitment shown by his players but admitted the overall outcome fell short of expectations.

"We are happy with the team, but not entirely satisfied with the overall performance. Before this tournament, we talked about the lack of international matches, but we still believed in the boys and encouraged them to give their best. For me, they gave everything," he told reporters.

The experienced trainer said the WAFU B Championship had provided valuable insight into the quality of his squad, helping the technical team identify players capable of competing at a higher level.

According to Konadu, Ghana's disappointing campaign underlined the need for better preparation and more competitive international matches before the continental tournament.

"It is good that we have seen what they can do. Some couldn't make the mark, while others showed they have what it takes. Now we have to prepare very well because without proper preparation you cannot win tournaments. We had enough time to train, but I think exposure made the difference," he added.

With the U-20 AFCON now firmly in focus, the Black Satellites technical team is expected to begin planning an extensive preparation schedule aimed at ensuring Ghana is ready to compete strongly on home soil.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story