Meet Ghanaâ??s twin defenders turning heads at U-17 AFCON in Morocco

Sat 16th May, 2026 20:47

Ghana’s Black Starlets have drawn attention at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with an unusual partnership at the heart of their defence: twin brothers Jacob Kpoeti and Esau Kpoeti.

The two defenders, who play side by side in central defence for Ghana, have quickly become one of the standout stories of the tournament after their performances in the opening Group D match against Algeria.

Born and raised in Mepe in Ghana’s Volta Region, the brothers have risen together through the ranks and are now representing Ghana on one of Africa’s biggest youth football stages.

“It means a lot to us and our family,” Jacob told CAFOnline.com. “Our people are proud of us, and they sat together to watch the game when we played Algeria.”

The twins revealed that support from their parents and community played an important role in their football journey before they were eventually spotted by WAFA.

Interestingly, Esau did not originally start his career as a defender.

“I was not a defender,” Esau explained. “Jacob was a defender, but I was a winger. Our coach at WAFA, Coach Saddick, turned me into a defender, and we have been playing together since.”

Their understanding on the pitch has become one of Ghana’s strengths, with both players admitting years of playing together have helped them anticipate each other’s movements naturally.

Despite Ghana surrendering a two-goal lead in the 2-2 draw against Algeria, the twins believe the experience has helped the team learn valuable lessons ahead of their next group game against Senegal.

The brothers also shared their long-term ambition of one day playing together for Real Madrid and Ghana’s senior national team.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story

Advertise Here contact ads[@]ghheadlines.com

Ghana twin defenders turning heads at U-17 AFCON in Morocco

Suggested for you

More Stories

Former NAFCO boss Hanan and wife face court again over theft, fraud and money laundering involving over GH¢60m

Lebanon says six children killed in Israel strike, US announces ceasefire extension

Canadian tests positive for hantavirus after cruise ship outbreak

Carlos Queiroz explains how Sir Alex Ferguson phone call led to Manchester United job

Hearts of Oak, Medeama join race for Eleven Wonders captain Emmanuel Boateng

Frederick Asare: Former Kotoko goalkeeper keeps clean sheet as Durban City hold Orlando Pirates

Discussion