The Black Starlets suffered a 3-0 defeat to host nation Ivory Coast in their second Group A game of the WAFU B U17 Cup of Nations on Tuesday evening.

The Ivorians struck early, breaking the deadlock in the 3rd minute to take control of the game. Despite Ghana’s efforts to respond, the hosts held on to their lead going into the break.

In the second half, Côte d’Ivoire added two more goals to seal a convincing 3-0 win in front of their home crowd.

The loss means the Black Starlets now face a decisive encounter against Niger in their final group match on Friday. With only one point from their first two games, the Black Starlets must secure all three points against Niger, who won their second game against Togo, to keep their hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive.

To qualify, Ghana will also be relying on results elsewhere, hoping Côte d’Ivoire defeats Togo in the other Group A fixture.

Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum and his technical team are expected to rally the players to bounce back strongly in what has become a must-win match to keep their tournament dreams alive.