Ghana U-20 coach Jimmy Cobblah remains confident the Black Satellites will reach the semifinals of the Africa Youth Championship despite suffering a disappointing defeat to Senegal on Wednesday.

The Black Satellites lost 2-0, with goals from Casa Sports de Ziguinchor striker Youssouph Badjie.

The defeat has left Ghana with a mountain to climb in their final game against Mali if they are to qualify for the World Cup.

“Senegal is a very tough side and they have a lot of bodies in front of their area. We made mistakes which were punished,” Jimmy Cobblah said in a post-match interview.

“It was a big game and Senegal were strong in defense so they carried the day.”

“I don’t know where this is coming from saying Mali are second favorites in this group but it’s all I know we will qualify for the semis.”

Senegal is the first country from the continent to qualify for the World Cup in Poland later this year.

Ghana will need a win or a draw against Mali to join Senegal at the global showpiece.