CAN U20 2027: Ghana and Burkina Faso to represent WAFU-B
WAFU-B has revealed its two representatives for the upcoming U20 Africa Cup of Nations. Ghana, as host nation for the 2027 edition, qualifies automatically. Burkina Faso claimed the second spot by winning the zonal tournament on Sunday, August 9, at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro.
Burkina in charge, Ghana at home
On Sunday, August 9, the Burkina Faso U20s crushed Nigeria 4-1 in the final to punch their ticket for the CAN. This triumph cements Burkina Faso's dominance in the region this year.
Meanwhile, Ghana, who qualified automatically as hosts, were knocked out in the group stage, finishing third in Group B behind Burkina Faso and Nigeria. The Black Satellites will enjoy the home advantage.
Seven nations at the starting line
In total, seven countries took part in the WAFU-B U20 qualifying tournament in Yamoussoukro: Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Niger, Benin, Togo, and Burkina Faso. It was a fiercely contested competition that helped spotlight emerging talents, such as Mohamed Zongo (player of the tournament) for Burkina Faso and Adul Adeleke for the Flying Eagles (five goals).
See you in 2027 in Ghana
The final phase of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations is set for 2027 in Ghana. With home support and a promising new generation, Ghana will be eager to shine on their own turf. Burkina Faso, meanwhile, returns to the continental stage after missing the 2023 and 2025 editions. Fresh from their WAFU-B title, the Stallions arrive with high ambitions.