Black Starlets head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum has urged his players to remain calm and turn pressure into motivation as Ghana prepares for the 2024 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Ghana has been drawn in Group D alongside Algeria, Senegal national under-17 football team and South Africa national under-17 football team, setting up a challenging opening phase for the young side.
Speaking to CAFOnline, Ogum stressed the importance of mental strength and discipline, insisting that external expectations should not weigh down his squad.
“We constantly remind the players to stay calm and focus on the process rather than the pressure outside. Playing for Ghana always comes with expectations, but we encourage them to see it as motivation instead of fear,” he said.
The former Asante Kotoko coach also emphasised the need for unity within the team, adding that collective effort will be key to success.
“We are building confidence within the team and helping the players understand that discipline, teamwork and belief are the keys to success.”
Ghana begin their campaign tonight against Algeria at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
The Black Starlets enter the tournament hoping to make a strong impression on the continental stage while also targeting qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup later this year.
