Canadian-born Ghanaian centre-back Kenneth Osei Bonsu Amankwa is aiming to secure a place in the Black Starlets’ final squad for the upcoming U-17 AFCON in Morocco.
The highly rated defender has impressed at club level, making 10 appearances for Excelsior Rotterdam while contributing two goals and two assists.
Amankwa’s development has also been shaped by training stints across Europe, including spells with Belgian sides RWDM Molenbeek and Royal Antwerp, experiences that have helped refine his defensive qualities and overall game.
Speaking to Citi Sports on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the Excelsior Rotterdam defender described the opportunity to represent Ghana on the continental stage as a huge honour.
“I think it means a lot to represent the country where I’m from and where my dad is from, to play for them at a high level.
“It feels good internally, and it also makes my parents and grandparents proud.
“If selected, it would be a great honour to play at the AFCON for Ghana. I give 100% in training every day to prove I belong here, and then see what happens.
“Of course I would be disappointed if I’m not selected, but I’ll take the lessons and use them to improve.”
The Black Starlets face a stern test in Group D, where they are drawn against defending champions, Algeria and South Africa.
Ghana heads into the tournament with a strong pedigree, as the second most successful nation in the competition’s history, having won the title twice, in 1995 and 1999, and finishing as runners-up in 2005 and 2017.
The 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations will be hosted by Morocco from May 13 to June 2, bringing together the continent’s top youth teams.
