When the referee’s whistle blew to start Ghana’s WAFU Zone B U17 opener in Yamoussoukro, few imagined the Black Starlets would spend nearly the entire match a man down. Yet just two minutes in, defender Gabriel Denyinah saw red, leaving Ghana’s youngsters to battle Togo with ten men for almost 90 minutes.

Captain Joseph Narbi refused to let the setback define the evening. Leading from the front, the lively midfielder made an early statement, ghosting into the box in the 9th minute to meet Mark Aboagye’s inch-perfect cross and smash home the opener. His goal sparked belief among the Starlets and the Ghanaian fans scattered across the Stade Charles Konan Banny.

Narbi’s influence only grew as the contest wore on. He dictated play with tireless running, sharp passing, and fearless tackles, often driving his team forward despite the numerical disadvantage. A clever second-half turn and shot almost produced a dream brace, but Togo goalkeeper Ninkabou Gantin denied him with a superb save.

Togo eventually levelled through Sultan Ganiou’s cool penalty early in the second half, but Narbi’s composure ensured Ghana stayed organised and competitive to the final whistle. His efforts did not go unnoticed: tournament officials named him Man of the Match, a fitting reward for a captain’s performance full of grit and class.

The Black Starlets now turn their focus to hosts Ivory Coast on Tuesday, where Narbi’s leadership will again be key to chasing their first win of the tournament.