Black Satellites coach Desmond Ofei has credited his playing body for staying "patient" to "earn the win" over Central African Republic in the final group stage match at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Ghana reached the quarter-finals of the competition with a 1-0 victory over the Central Africans, which saw them top Group C with seven points.

"The CAR boys fought really hard and made it difficult for us at times. We lost a number of balls in our own half, which gave them some confidence and momentum, but I’m proud of the resilience the boys showed," Ofei said.

"We didn’t rush the game. The boys controlled the game, worked the ball well, and stayed patient even when the goal didn’t come early. I’m happy for them — they earned this win."

Ghana will face one of the best third-placed sides from Group A or B for a place in the semi-finals.

The last four teams will qualify for the U-20 FIFA World Cup.