U20 AFCON 2025: Ibrahim Mahama’s Son Michael Amer Debuts in Ghana’s Win Over CAR

• Ibrahim Mahama's talented son, Michael Amer, made his competitive debut for Ghana in the ongoing U20 AFCON in Egypt
• The talented teenager came on as a late substitute for Abdul Aziz Issah in Ghana's 1-0 win against the Central African Republic
• While he didn't get enough minutes to showcase his talent, Amer will take solace in the country advancing to the next round

Ibrahim Mahama's son, Michael Amer, debuted for Ghana's Under-20 football team during their final group stage clash at the U20 AFCON.

The highly anticipated debut came in Ghana's narrow but decisive 1-0 triumph over the Central African Republic (CAR) on Thursday, May 8.

Ibrahim Mahama's son makes U20 AFCON debut

The young forward, who plies his trade with the Nice Ibrahim Sports Academy, had to bide his time for his long-awaited debut.

He was left out of the squad for the opening fixture against the Democratic Republic of Congo and was unused against Senegal.

However, with progression to the knockout stage on the line, Michael's opportunity to shine for Ghana finally arrived against CAR.

Coach Desmond Ofei introduced him in second-half stoppage time, after Joseph Opoku’s 84th-minute goal, per CAF's website.

How did Michael Amer perform on debut?

Wearing the No.2 jersey, the left-footed attacker entered the pitch in the 91st minute, replacing midfielder Abdul Aziz Issah, who had been instrumental throughout and was later named Man of the Match.

Despite his late entry and limited touches of the ball, Michael approached his brief cameo with composure. Unfortunately, he had little time to influence the contest as the final whistle came soon after.

Still, the occasion marked a personal milestone and a step forward. Coach Ofei’s game management showed confidence in his squad depth, preparing players like Mahama for greater roles in the latter stages.

Ghana qualify for U20 AFCON quarter-finals

The Black Satellites’ win secured top spot in Group C with seven points, following a solid campaign that included a goalless draw against DR Congo and a slim victory over Senegal.

This marks the first time Ghana has completed the group stage unbeaten since 2013, rekindling hopes of a fifth continental title. They will face the top third-place team, as CAF reported.

Meanwhile, Senegal’s 2-0 win in the simultaneous fixture against DR Congo ensured they joined Ghana in the quarter-finals.

DR Congo also advanced as one of the best third-placed sides, with Group A's winner to be determined later tonight (May 9).

Nigeria, Morocco, and Sierra Leone moved ahead to the knockouts, with South Africa, Tanzania and Egypt chasing a QF spot.

Ghana U20 coach reacts after qualification

Coach Desmond Ofei, visibly elated after the full-time whistle, applauded his side’s discipline and maturity:

“This result was the reward for our patience and tactical discipline,” he said, as quoted by CAF Online.

“The boys showed maturity today, and now we look forward to the knockout stage with confidence.”

Michael Amer outlines his football plans

YEN.com.gh also previously reported on Michael Amer’s aspirations of becoming a professional footballer and representing Ghana on the world stage.

The son of Ibrahim Mahama said that he had received an offer from an undisclosed German club and would finalise the transfer once the season ends.

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh