Black Maidens celebrating
Ghana’s Black Maidens take on Argentina in the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, just three days after sealing qualification from Group C.
Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side beat Canada 2-0 in their final group game, with super-subs Linda Achiaa (65′) and Christiana Ashiaku (90+5′) getting the goals. Achiaa struck just 35 seconds after coming off the bench.
The result left Ghana on four points and among the top two in the group.
It was a bumpy road to the knockouts. The Maidens lost 3-0 to Norway in their opener before fighting back to draw 3-3 with Brazil.
Argentina topped their group unbeaten and go into the tie as favourites, known for their technical play and physical intensity.
Adarkwa is expected to retain the core of the side that beat Canada. Player of the Match Seidatu Wahab and Jessica Appiah will be key in midfield, while goalkeeper Belinda Aku Aklie and defenders Rafia Osman, Hajara Adam, Latifa Musah and Seraphina Esse Essenam must contain Argentina’s attack. Priscilla Mensah and Ashiaku offer strong options off the bench.
“We know we are heading to difficult times. We are going to face tougher opposition,” Adarkwa said after the Canada win. “Now we must do it again.”
A victory will send Ghana into the quarterfinals.
BY Wletsu Ransford