Ghana and Uganda have officially named their starting lineups ahead of their decisive playoff encounter at the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with a place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup at stake.
The Black Starlets, led by head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum, go into the fixture determined to keep their World Cup dream alive after narrowly missing out on automatic qualification from the group stage.
Goalkeeper John Annan starts between the posts for Ghana, while Joseph Narbi captains the side. The starting XI also includes Isaac Barfo, Eric Gyamfi, Gabriel Denyinah and forward Abdul Latif as Ghana look to deliver a strong performance in the high-pressure showdown.
Uganda, coached by former Ghana international Laryea Kingston, have also named a competitive lineup for the must-win tie. Goalkeeper Lukyamuzi gets the nod in goal, with captain Owen Mukisa expected to lead the East Africans from midfield.
Players such as Travor Mubiru, Ngobi Shakur and Mujad Mbalire are included in Uganda’s starting team as they seek to upset the Black Starlets and secure qualification to the global tournament.
The matchup adds extra intrigue with Kingston facing his former side after previously coaching Ghana’s U-17 team before Prosper Ogum’s appointment.
Ghana Starting XI:
John Annan (GK), Nyantakyi, Isaac Barfo, Essuman, Eric Gyamfi, Joseph Narbi (C), Gabriel Denyinah, Clement Agyei, Michael Awuli, Abdul Latif, Jacob Kpoeti.
Uganda Starting XI:
Lukyamuzi (GK), Mwesigwa, John Owino, Muhoozi Henry, Owen Mukisa (C), Travor Mubiru, Ngobi Shakur, Ibanda Arafat, Kawooya, Musa Suuna, Mujad Mbalire.
Kickoff promises to be intense as both nations battle for the final ticket to the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
