Black Maidens with GFA President
The Black Maidens have returned to Ghana on Monday after an impressive campaign at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, finishing among the top eight teams in the world.
Their run to the last eight was built on resilience. In the Round of 16, they beat Argentina 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, despite playing with ten players following Hajara Adam’s dismissal.
Jessica Appiah scored the winning spot-kick and was named Player of the Match.
In the quarter-finals, Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side were beaten 1-0 by a disciplined Japan, who scored through Nanami Kurita in the 54th minute. Japan have since advanced to the semi-finals.
GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku visited the team at their Accra base on Monday morning to congratulate the players and technical staff for representing the nation with distinction.
He praised their discipline, fighting spirit and tactical organisation, and urged them to build on the experience gained in Morocco.
He also commended Adarkwa and his backroom staff for guiding the team to the quarter-finals despite injury and suspension setbacks, including the absence of captain Seidatu Wahab and Adam against Japan.
Standout performers at the tournament included Appiah, Cynthia Obinsrewuo, Osman Rafia, Gloria Ameaa Adomako and goalkeeper Belinda Marku Aklie.
Simeon-Okraku assured the team of the association’s continued support and investment in women’s youth football to help the Maidens return stronger in future competitions.
BY Wletsu Ransford