Jerry Afriyie leaves Ghana U-20 camp, returns to CD Lugo ahead of crucial CAR clash

Ghana striker Jerry Afriyie has left the Black Satellites’ camp. He is returning to his Spanish club, CD Lugo. This follows an agreement between the Ghana Football Association and Lugo.

Afriyie, 18, was allowed to play in only two matches. He featured in games against DR Congo and Senegal at the U-20 AFCON in Egypt. His club confirmed he would return on May 7. This means he will miss Ghana’s final Group C match against the Central African Republic.

CD Lugo stated, “After expressing his desire to join his national team, we authorized him to travel.” They added that he would return after participating in the first two group stage matches.

Afriyie played a crucial role for Ghana. He came off the bench against DR Congo and assisted in beating Senegal 1-0. His departure is a setback for Ghana's hopes of winning their fifth U-20 AFCON title.

He has been a standout player in Ghana’s youth setup. Afriyie helped qualify for AFCON by finishing as runners-up at WAFU Zone B Championship. He won both the Golden Boot and Best Player awards there.

He also scored the decisive goal for Ghana at the 2024 African Games. Afriyie's rise includes a senior debut with the Black Stars, where he scored against Niger. Earlier this year, he joined CD Lugo on loan from Al Qadsiah and has scored twice in seven appearances.

The Black Satellites will face the Central African Republic on May 8 without Afriyie. They need at least a draw to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.