Ghana’s national under-15 boys’ team have arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan, to begin their participation in the 2026 FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival, with preparations underway for their opening Group W encounter against Uzbekistan.

The delegation departed Accra on Wednesday and arrived safely in the Azerbaijani capital, where the players and officials received a welcome at the airport ahead of the international youth football competition.

The travelling contingent comprises 12 players and technical staff. Upon arrival, the team completed the mandatory registration and documentation procedures required for participation in the tournament.

The players appeared in high spirits as they settled into their new environment, with the technical team focused on ensuring they are ready for the challenges ahead.

Ghana have been drawn in Group W alongside Uzbekistan, Myanmar, Guam, the Bahamas and Kazakhstan, setting up a busy schedule for the young team during the group stage.

The Black Starlets will begin their campaign against Uzbekistan on Saturday, October 24, before facing Myanmar and Guam on Sunday, October 25.

They will conclude their group-stage fixtures against the Bahamas and Kazakhstan on Monday, October 26, 2026.

The demanding schedule will require the Ghanaian youngsters to maintain their concentration, energy and performance levels as they seek to make a strong impression against their international counterparts.

As part of their preparations, the team held its first training session in Azerbaijan on Thursday evening, allowing the players to familiarise themselves with the conditions and continue working towards the opening fixture.

The competition is designed to provide promising under-15 footballers from different countries with valuable international exposure and an opportunity to develop their skills against players from other footballing backgrounds.

The FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival forms part of FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme, which seeks to support the growth of young footballers by providing structured development opportunities and international playing experience.

For Ghana, the tournament presents an important platform for the young players to gain experience, demonstrate their abilities and take further steps in their football development.

With their arrival and initial training session completed, attention now turns to Saturday’s opening encounter against Uzbekistan as the Ghanaian side begins its quest for a successful campaign in Azerbaijan.