The Black Satellites of Ghana are set for a challenging test at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, having been drawn into Group C alongside defending champions Senegal, DR Congo, and the Central African Republic. The draw was conducted on Sunday, April 13, following the withdrawal of Côte d’Ivoire as hosts, with Egypt now stepping in to host the prestigious youth tournament from April 27 to May 18.

The fresh draw places Ghana in one of the most competitive groups of the tournament, pitting them against a formidable Senegalese side that lifted the trophy in 2023, as well as traditionally strong DR Congo and a rising Central African Republic outfit eager to make their mark.

Led by head coach Desmond Ofei, the Black Satellites will be eyeing a deep run in Egypt as they seek to add to their rich history in the U-20 AFCON — having won the tournament four times, most recently in 2021. However, with only the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed sides progressing to the quarter-finals, the margin for error will be slim.

This year’s edition features 13 nations, split into three groups — one with five teams and two with four — ensuring a compact and fiercely contested tournament. Alongside the traditional powerhouses, a number of emerging sides will be hoping to announce themselves on the continental stage.

As anticipation builds, the spotlight is on Africa’s next generation of stars. For Ghana, the path to glory begins in Group C, and the challenge could not be greater — but neither could the opportunity.