U17 AFCON: Black Starlets Squander Two Goal Lead as Algeria Mount Comeback to Earn Draw

Ghanas Black Starlets kicked off their 2025 CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations with a disappointing 2-2 stalemate against Algeria on Wednesday.

Returning to the event after nine years away the side surrendered a solid two goal advantage from the first half allowing a resolute Algerian team to claw their way back in the second.

This outcome will have coach Prosper Narteh Ogum and his squad pondering missed chances especially with qualification for the World Cup hanging in the balance.

From the start Ghana dominated displaying high energy and straightforward play that left Algeria on the back foot during the initial phase.

The Black Starlets went ahead early via Yao Gavis effort which took a deflection off Noam Benramdane into an unguarded goal following an error by goalkeeper Yazid Tifrani.

Eric Gyamfi made it two nil in the 10th minute with a stunning lob over the keeper from roughly 40 yards a serious candidate for the tournaments best strike.

Leading by two at the break after dictating most of the play Ghana appeared poised for an easy opening win. Algeria posed minimal threat upfront while Ghanas backline faced few issues. Victory looked assured.

The restart brought a stark contrast. Algeria came out revitalised and focused pressing aggressively and surging forward with the intensity their position required.

The North Africans reduced the deficit through Adam Benali pulling it to 2-1 and instantly altering the matches dynamic. Buoyed by the goal Algeria gained confidence while the Black Starlets appeared unsettled.

The tide turned fully and just three minutes on Melwane Zaidis headed equaliser levelled the scores. Algeria kept pressing for a winner but squandered a prime chance when Illyas Grinis spot kick sailed high over the bar.

Ghana take on Senegal in their next group match on Saturday May 17. Securing a strong outcome against these West African opponents will be vital for the Black Starlets to progress to the knockout stages and sustain Ghanas pursuit of a second U17 AFCON crown.

Senegal must also claim victory having fallen 2-1 to South Africa in their tournament opener.