Ghana’s U23 Head Coach Ibrahim Tanko has heaped praises on his lads following a solid performance in their 1-1 draw in leg 1 of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U23 qualifier played at the 19 May 1956 Stadium in Annaba.

Sporting Lisbon forward Abdul Fatawu Issahaku put the Black Meteors ahead with a sensational goal after taking a shot from the centre after 83 minutes.

However, Ghana conceded a late penalty to draw with Algeria.

Speaking in a post game reaction, the Gaffer is optimistic about his team’s chances of beating Algeria for a slot at the AFCON 2023 Tournament.

“We went to Algeria and played well. I am now optimistic that my team will be able to play better with home support and also take their chances in the return leg in Ghana next week,” said Tanko.

The coach said they had wanted to have a good score line before the second leg, but added that the players know what is expected from them when the return leg is played in Ghana. “I am confident that we have a team that can deliver and qualify for the U23 AFCON,” added the Ghana coach.

The reverse leg will be played on Tuesday March 28th at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi to determine who books a ticket to the U23 AFCON which will also act as qualifiers for the Olympic Games to take place in France.