By GhanaNewsPage 
Ghana’s U-20 national football team, the Black Satellites, kicked off their 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday, May 2, 2025, in Egypt.
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The Group C opener delivered a tightly contested battle, showcasing the promise and raw talent of two of Africa’s emerging football powerhouses.
Match Highlights: DR Congo Strikes First, Ghana Responds Swiftly
DR Congo drew first blood in the 15th minute through team captain Samuel Ntanda-Lukisa, who expertly headed home a well-placed cross to give his side an early lead. The goal was a reward for Congo’s dominant start and set the tone for an intense clash.
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However, the Black Satellites responded swiftly. In the 25th minute, Musibau Aziz—a rising star from Dreams FC—found the back of the net after latching onto a precise cross from winger Emmanuel Mensah. The equalizer breathed new life into the Ghanaian side, who began to assert more control over the midfield.
Midfield Maestro Abdul Hakim Sulemana Shines
One of the standout performers of the match was Abdul Hakim Sulemana, whose composure, vision, and control in midfield earned him the Man of the Match award. Sulemana was pivotal in breaking up Congo’s attacks and launching several of Ghana’s forward movements, drawing praise from fans and analysts alike.
Second Half: Missed Chances, Shared Spoils
The second half saw both teams push for a winner, with end-to-end action and a flurry of chances. Ghana came close through set pieces and long-range efforts, while DR Congo threatened on the counterattack. Despite the intensity, neither side could find the clinical finish needed to seal the win.
Group C Standings: Wide Open After Matchday One
Following this result and the 1-1 draw between Senegal and the Central African Republic, all four teams in Group C are level on one point each, leaving the group wide open heading into Matchday Two.
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What’s Next for Ghana U-20?
Ghana now faces a crucial encounter against defending champions Senegal on Monday, May 5, 2025. A win in that match could significantly boost the Black Satellites’ hopes of qualifying for the knockout stage of the AFCON U-20 2025 tournament.
🎥 Watch Ghana vs DR Congo U-20 Highlights Below
