Many times we see young talents struggle to translate their promise from grassroots football to the biggest stages.
For 16-year-old Eric Adu Gyamfi, however, the story has been different.
His journey began in the streets of Ashtown in Kumasi, where he starred for Kotoko Babies at colts level, quickly earning a reputation for flair and composure.
Nicknamed “Messi” by teammates and supporters, he announced himself further by winning the Best Player award at a regional tournament before earning a move to Ebony FC, where his rise within the Ashanti Region football scene became even more evident.
Inspired by Ghana international Mohammed Kudus, Eric closed his debut season with 11 goals and 6 assists, firmly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young prospects in the setup.
His performances did not go unnoticed, as he soon caught the attention of the Ghana U-17 national team, the Black Starlets, with some observers dubbing him “Akwasi Messi” for his creativity and close control.
From his very first training sessions, Eric impressed with his ability to beat opponents in tight spaces, his stamina, aggression, and sharp tactical awareness, qualities that quickly earned him a place in Coach Ogum’s plans ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
He featured in almost all preparatory matches leading into the tournament.
Speaking before the competition, a determined Eric said:
“I just want to make the AFCON squad. I want to represent the country one day. That has been my dream since childhood, and I know God will help me.”
At the tournament in Morocco, Eric lived up to the hype.
In Ghana’s opening Group D clash against Algeria at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026, the Black Starlets midfielder was named Man of the Match after a standout performance in a thrilling 2–2 draw.
After Isaac Barfo opened the scoring in the second minute, Eric doubled Ghana’s lead in style in the 10th minute, producing a sensational long-range volley from central midfield that left the goalkeeper helpless and stood out as one of the tournament’s finest goals.
In the second group game, Eric again made his presence felt, finding the net early in the 7th minute, only for the goal to be disallowed after a VAR review ruled a foul on the goalkeeper. Ghana eventually fell 1–0 to Senegal, despite a spirited and disciplined display.
The Black Starlets bounced back in their final Group D match, defeating South Africa 3–1 in an impressive performance.
However, Ghana narrowly missed out on progression after results forced a tie-break decided by the drawing of lots.
In their decisive encounter, everything came down to fine margins.
Ghana started strongly, with Eric Adu Gyamfi once again stepping up to score and give the Starlets the lead.
With qualification within reach, Uganda were awarded a late penalty with around five minutes remaining, which they converted to level the match at 2–2 and force a shootout.
The penalty shootout was tense and dramatic, with both sides converting under pressure, but Uganda eventually prevailed 8–7 to seal qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup, ending Ghana’s hopes in heartbreaking fashion.
Despite the disappointment, Eric reflected on the campaign with pride:
“I’m happy to have put Ghana and myself on the map. Although that’s not what we expected, we give everything to God. I want to thank Coach Ogum and his team for their unwavering support.”
For his first taste of international football, Eric Adu Gyamfi did not disappoint, producing impressive moments throughout the tournament and ending with two goals and two assists.
He has now firmly established himself as a talent to watch.
