By Belinda Nketia
“We are ready to kill ourselves for Ghanaians”, that was the bold declaration from head coach Joyce Boatey-Agyei after Ghana’s U-15 girls’ team battled their way into the finals of the CAF African Schools Football Championship with a thrilling 3-2 win over South Africa on Friday, April 25, 2025.
The fierce semi-final clash saw Jennifer Awuku open the scoring for Ghana in the first half before South Africa equalized, ending the half at 1-1.
In the second half, team captain Hajara Adam delivered a stunning goal to restore Ghana’s lead, and Rahama Azimpaga Mohammed followed with a third to seal the victory.
Hajara Adam, wearing jersey number 2, delivered a captain’s performance that left a lasting impression. Her command on the field, fearless play, and crucial goal showcased her leadership and skill. Her performance drew chants from the crowd: “Number 2! Number 2! Number 2!”, a powerful testament to her influence on the pitch.
“I feel so good, I don’t even know how to express myself,” she said after the game, beaming with pride.
Coach Boatey Agyei reflected on the game with emotion and resolve.
“I feel great, I feel fulfilled, in fact, I feel I’m already the winner,” she said.
“We conceded two goals, which confirms what I’ve always said: you don’t have to underrate your opponents” she noted.
According to the coach, the first goal they conceded was when one of the players was injured and off the pitch making their defense porous and the second was due to a lapse in concentration from the goalkeeper.
“But, it’s a lesson for us so we know how to react when such things happen” in the finals.
She ended with a promise that
“We didn’t come here to play. We want to make Ghanaians proud. We really have to not let their cheers and support be in vain. We are ready to kill ourselves to make them happy.”
Ghana will now face Uganda in the grand finale on Saturday, April 26 2025 after Uganda secured their final spot with a 2-0 win over Morocco in the other semi-final.
