GHANA’s U-15 BOYS DAZZLE IN 3-1 VICTORY OVER CAMEROON TO ADVANCE TO THE SEMI-FINALS OF THE 2025 AFRICAN YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS

Ghana’s Under-15 Boys Table Tennis Team produced a masterclass performance to defeat Cameroon 3–1 in a thrilling encounter at the ongoing 2025 ITTF African Youth Championships.

The tie opened with a pulsating five-set battle as Prince Aklie went head-to-head with Cameroon’s Bailina Valengy. Despite Prince’s aggressive play and winning the first and third sets, Valengy edged the match 3–2 (11–6, 6–11, 11–9, 10–12, 11–13) to give Cameroon the early lead.

Ghana struck back immediately through Israel Aklie, who overwhelmed Ndzelen Maxwell with sharp attacking strokes and precise placement to secure a commanding straight-sets win (12–10, 11–4, 11–6), leveling the score at 1–1.

The momentum stayed with Ghana as Hamza Issah dominated Ndzelen Maxsmith from start to finish, winning comfortably 11–9, 11–4, 11–6 to put the team ahead for the first time in the tie.

Needing just one more victory to seal the win, Israel Aklie returned to the table for his second match of the day, and he delivered in style. Against Bailina Valengy, Israel played with composure and precision, claiming another straight-sets triumph (11–6, 18–16, 11–1) to secure the overall 3–1 victory for Ghana.

With this impressive performance, Ghana’s U-15 boys have sent a strong message to their rivals, proving they are genuine contenders for continental success.