GFA boss Kurt Okraku backs Black Starlets to fight for Ghana at U-17 AFCON

Ghana FA president Kurt Okraku has urged the Black Starlets to adopt a resilient mentality as they prepare for the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Speaking during a farewell meeting with the team at the Accra International Airport in the early hours of Wednesday, Okraku encouraged the players to maintain a “never say die” spirit throughout the competition.

The Black Starlets departed Ghana for the tournament following their final preparations, with the GFA president addressing both the players and technical team before takeoff.

Drawing inspiration from the team’s recent friendly matches against Ivory Coast, Simeon-Okraku praised the players for their response after losing the opening game before bouncing back strongly in the second encounter.

“I’m very happy that when you lost to Ivory Coast in your first game during your friendly matches, you were able to come back, not only to dominate but to outscore them in the second game,” he said.

“I read a lot of meaning into that, and I want all of you to keep that in your heads, that it’s not over until it’s all over.”

Okraku stressed that mental strength and unity would be vital for the team during the tournament, especially when faced with difficult moments.

“When the chips are down, that’s when we need to hold each other together,” he added. “So go out there and make Ghana proud.”

The Black Starlets will compete in Group D alongside Algeria, Senegal and South Africa.

Ghana’s opening game of the tournament is scheduled for May 14.