The Ghana U17 Women’s National Football Team, the Black Maidens, secured a commanding 6-0 victory over Liberia in the first leg of their 2026 U17 Women’s World Cup second-round qualifier on Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium. This dominant performance gives the Ghanaian side a significant advantage heading into the second leg.
Dominant First Half Performance
Despite having two goals disallowed for offside in the opening 25 minutes, the Black Maidens broke the deadlock in the 31st minute. Jessica Appiah initiated a strong play down the left wing, setting up Daniella Abass for a close-range finish to put Ghana up 1-0. While the team created numerous chances throughout the first half, they were unable to convert them efficiently, heading into halftime with only a one-goal lead.
Second Half Goal Bonanza
The second half saw an explosion of goals from the Ghanaian side. Skipper Seidatu Wahab extended the lead in the 47th minute, converting a penalty after a handball was called in the Liberian box. Shortly after, Linda Achiaa turned defense into attack, rounded the goalkeeper, and scored to make it 3-0. Substitute Priscilla Mensah then provided an assist for Jessica Appiah to score Ghana’s fourth goal. Mensah later added her name to the scoresheet, netting Ghana’s fifth goal. In the dying moments of the match, Mavis Yeboah capitalized on a high Liberian defensive line, running through to score the Maidens’ sixth goal, sealing the emphatic win.
Path to the World Cup
The Black Maidens had previously overcome Togo in the first round of the qualifiers. This decisive win over Liberia puts them in a strong position to advance to the final round of qualification. Should they successfully navigate the second leg against Liberia, Ghana will face the winner of the tie between Cameroon and Senegal for a spot in the U17 Women’s World Cup.
Looking Ahead
The return leg is scheduled for next weekend in Liberia. The Black Maidens will aim to formalize their advancement, while Liberia faces an uphill battle to overturn the substantial deficit. The performance in Accra highlights Ghana’s ambition and potential in this qualification campaign, with a strong showing against Liberian opposition setting a positive tone for future rounds.
Leave a Reply