Ghana U20 forward Jerry Afriyie has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to both club and country, as he is set to fly back to Cairo on Sunday to rejoin the Black Satellites ahead of their crucial Africa U-20 Cup of Nations quarterfinal clash against host nation Egypt.
Just 24 hours after inspiring his club side CD Lugo to a 2-2 comeback draw against Gimnàstic in the Spanish lower division—where he scored a dramatic late equalizer and provided an assist—Afriyie will return to national duty in what could be a decisive moment for Ghana's World Cup hopes.
GHANAsoccernet.com understands that the 18-year-old will leave Spain on Sunday to link up with the rest of the squad for preparations ahead of Monday’s quarterfinal, which will determine whether Ghana qualifies for the FIFA U-20 World Cup for the first time in over a decade.
Afriyie had previously left the Black Satellites’ camp after two group matches, following a mutual agreement between CD Lugo and the Ghana Football Association. His brief return to club duty proved crucial, as his Man of the Match performance lifted Lugo to 15th in the 20-team Primera Federación standings.
The former Thoughts FC striker has been a key figure in Ghana’s U20 campaign, having delivered the match-winning assist in the 1-0 win over defending champions Senegal. Though he missed the group finale against the Central African Republic, his return is expected to give Desmond Offei’s side a massive boost as they gear up for a make-or-break showdown in Cairo.
Monday's clash with Egypt is more than just a quarterfinal—it is a gateway to the global stage, and Afriyie's presence could prove pivotal in Ghana's quest for a long-awaited return to the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
