President Nana Akufo-Addo has said “congratulations to the Black Satellites for winning Ghana’s 4th AFCON U-20 trophy”.

“Thoroughly deserved victory, and they’ve made Mother Ghana proud”, he posted on social media.

“What a way to celebrate our 64th Independence Anniversary!! Kudos to the team, and I look forward to receiving the playing, technical and management teams to Jubilee House”, he added.

Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia also said: “Congratulations to the Black Satellites of Ghana for winning the 2021 Total Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament”.

“You have given Ghana a perfect gift to commemorate our Independence Day.

We are proud of you”. 

Ghana won their fourth Africa U20 Cup of Nations title after beating Uganda 2-0 in this year’s edition of the competition.

Captain Daniel Afriyie Barnieh scored in each half to give the Black Satellites victory in the game which was played at the Stade Olympique de Nouakchott.

The game coincided with Ghana's 64th Independence Day celebration.

An early onslaught by the Ugandans was quickly halted by the Black Satellites as Patrick Baffour and Emmanuel Essiam both hit the post in the 11th minute.

Coach Karim Zito’s side then dominated the game and two quick corner kicks one of which was quickly connected by Afriyie Barnieh to give Ghana a lead on the 21st-minute mark.

Patrick Mensah could have doubled Ghana’s lead in the 31st-minute but his shot from the edge of the box went straight to the goalkeeper.

The first half ended with Barnieh’s goal being the difference between the two sides.

The Black Satellites returned from the break with a clear determination to double their lead and confirm their dominance in the game.

Barnieh got a brace in the game after latching on to a pass from Percious Boah to slot home and give the Black Satellites a 2-0 lead.

Coach Karim Zito introduced fresh legs Emmanuel Agyeman Duah, Matthew Anim Cudjoe and Frank Boateng to consolidate Ghana’s lead.

Agyemang Duah came close to adding to Ghana’s lead after his long-range shot was saved by the Ugandan goalkeeper.

The game ended with Ghana emerging as Champions of Africa for the fourth time, after winning the competition in 1993, 1999 and 2009.

Afriyie Barnieh was adjudged the Most Valuable Player in the match after scoring twice to give Ghana a win in the game.

At the end of the tournament, Ghana’s Abdul Fatawu Issahaku emerged as the Player of the Tournament with Goalkeeper Ibrahim Danladi also grabbing the Golden Gloves.