Black Satellites head coach Sellas Tetteh has acknowledged that Mali was better than his side for long stretches in yesterday’s African Youth Cup semifinal, but applauded the Satellites for showing grit and determination.

Speaking to reporters after Ghana’s 4-2 penalties win over the Malians, Tetteh acknowledged that the game was very tough, but says his side reminds him a lot of the victorious 2009 squad.

“It was a tough game, but what I remember is that in the last 13 minutes we showed some grit and determination. Yes Mali played better than us for long periods but we finished strong and the players were tenacious.

"This team pleases me as it is like that of 2009 and we'll give everything to fulfill our dream as in 2009 in Rwanda," he submitted.

Goalkeeper Eric Ofori Antwi, who was voted man of the match following two saves during the penalty shoot-outs, also applauded the Malians for playing well, noting that strict adherence to instructions from Tetteh carried the Black Satellites through.

"I congratulate the Malian team. Tonight was very difficult but we managed to contain the Malian charge and pressure and never stopped believing even when we were up against it.

"We applied all the instructions of the coach because Mali was stronger in this game and at the end of it all we have finished the match as the victorious side and we head into the final," he added.