Ghana blows a two-goal lead in frustrating U-17 AFCON draw with Algeria

Ghana’s Black Starlets surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Algeria in their opening Group D match at the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday evening.

The Black Starlets made a flying start at the Mohammed VI Football Academy (pitch 3) and looked on course for an important opening victory after dominating the early stages.

Gavi Yao handed Ghana the lead in just the third minute after capitalising on a costly mistake by the Algerian goalkeeper. The Black Starlets continued to press forward and doubled their advantage in the 10th minute through Eric Gyamfi, whose superb long-range chip left the crowd stunned.

With a two-goal cushion inside the opening 10 minutes, Ghana appeared comfortable and in control of the contest heading into the break.

However, Algeria mounted a strong second-half response to turn the momentum of the game.

Adam Benali reduced the deficit in the 57th minute after being played through by Mahdi Maghlout, before Zaidi equalised three minutes later to complete the comeback for the North Africans.

The Black Starlets were then handed a major scare in the 67th minute when Algeria won a penalty. Fortunately for Ghana, Ilyas Grini fired his effort over the crossbar, allowing Prosper Narteh Ogum’s side to remain level.

Both teams pushed for a winner in an entertaining closing period, but neither side could find the decisive goal in a dramatic encounter.

The result leaves Ghana with one point from their opening Group D fixture, with the Black Starlets now turning their attention to a crucial clash against Senegal in their next match.

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