Defending champions Nigeria are bracing for a tough challenge as they head into the WAFU B U17 AFCON qualifying tournament, which starts in Ghana on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. The competition will see some of West Africa’s best U17 teams battling for a spot in the TotalEnergies U17 AFCON finals.
Hosts Ghana, buoyed by home support, headline Group A, where they are joined by Cote d’Ivoire and Benin. The Black Starlets, led by former international star Laryea Kingston, aim to leverage their home advantage and secure a berth in the U17 AFCON finals. The tournament kicks off with an exciting opening clash between Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire at the Legon Stadium in Accra.
Nigeria, drawn in Group B, faces formidable opponents Burkina Faso, Togo, and Niger. The Golden Eaglets clinched the WAFU B U17 AFCON title in 2022 after a hard-fought victory over Burkina Faso in the regional final. However, their journey to defend their title will be challenging, with familiar rivals Togo and Niger also in their group.
Burkina Faso, who finished third in the last TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations, brings strong performance credentials to the tournament, heightening anticipation for thrilling encounters in Group B. Nigeria will need to deliver top performances to navigate this challenging group and secure a spot in next year’s U17 AFCON.
Thursday’s fixtures promise exciting matches, with Burkina Faso taking on Nigeria, while Togo battles Niger in Group B encounters. With a spot in the U17 AFCON at stake, the WAFU B qualifying tournament promises drama and excitement as teams vie for supremacy from May 15 to May 28, 2024.
Groups:
Group A: Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, BeninGroup B: Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Togo, Niger
