The Ghana Black Starlets are set to benefit from an upcoming decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to expand the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Expected to be announced during CAF’s Executive Committee virtual meeting on Friday, June 21, 2024, the expansion will increase the number of participating teams from 12 to 24. This decision aligns with FIFA’s expansion of the U-17 World Cup to 48 teams, allowing Africa to field 10 representatives.

Currently, teams qualify through zonal tournaments, with each zone, including WAFU Zone B where Ghana competes, sending two teams. With the expansion, each zone will now send four teams, enhancing Ghana’s chances.

This development is especially promising for Ghana, who finished fourth in the recent WAFU Zone B championship held in Accra. Burkina Faso emerged as champions, with Ivory Coast as runners-up and Nigeria securing third place.

Initially, only the top two teams from each zone would qualify. However, with CAF’s anticipated decision, the top four teams from each zone, including Ghana, will qualify for the U-17 AFCON in Algeria next year. This expanded opportunity gives Ghana a chance to compete for a spot in the U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

3.5