'Winning our first game is very important to ease the pressure' – Hamza Mohammed on Black Starlets’ Benin test

Assistant coach Hamza Mohammed of the Black Starlets expressed confidence in Ghana's ability to build upon their opening victory against Togo as they prepare to face Benin in the second Group A match of the WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship on Tuesday, October 13. Following their 1-0 win over Togo, which secured Ghana's top position in Group A with three points, the Black Starlets aim to maintain their winning momentum against Benin, who drew goalless with hosts Burkina Faso and currently have one point.

Mohammed believes that Ghana's first victory provides a solid foundation to build upon as they strive for a semi-final spot and ultimately seek qualification for the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). "Winning your first game is very, very important to ease the pressure on the team and the players. We have so many positives in that game, and that's what we are going to capitalise on and go in for the second match," he stated.

Immediately after their Togo win, the technical team shifted its focus to preparing for Benin, emphasizing the importance of maintaining concentration throughout the competition. Despite acknowledging the quality of their opponents, Mohammed insisted that Ghana had prepared for a different challenge from their opening encounter. "It's not going to be the same game as we played against Togo. It's going to be a different ball game altogether," he affirmed.

With only the two finalists securing qualification for the 2027 U-17 AFCON, Ghana is eager to secure another positive result and further strengthen their chances of progressing in the competition.