Former Black Stars midfielder Bernard Yao Kumordzi has rallied the Black Starlets ahead of their decisive Group D encounter against South Africa at the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Kumordzi visited the team during their final training session on Tuesday evening and delivered a passionate message to the players, urging them to fight for the nation and give everything on the field in pursuit of qualification to the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Addressing the players after training, the former Ghana international encouraged the team to remain determined and committed throughout the game against South Africa.

“This is the moment for all of you to fight for Ghana and fight for yourselves. Opportunities like this do not come every day in football, so you must give everything on the pitch and never stop fighting until the final whistle,” he told the players.

Kumordzi stressed the importance of maintaining belief and intensity throughout the match regardless of the circumstances during the game.

“No matter what happens in the game, never give up. Keep pushing, keep believing, and continue fighting for each other because football can change within seconds.”

The former midfielder also commended Head Coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum and his technical team for the work done with the squad during the tournament.

“The coaches have done a very good job preparing this team and you can see the quality in the way you play. Now it is left with you, the players, to go onto the field and show the same hunger and determination.”

The Black Starlets head into Wednesday’s crucial clash knowing victory could significantly boost their chances of progressing in the tournament and securing qualification to the FIFA U17 World Cup.