FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Black Maidens fight back to hold Brazil in thrilling 3-3 draw

Ghana’s Black Maidens fought back from behind to secure a hard-earned 3-3 draw against Brazil in their second Group C match at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with substitute Priscilla Mensah scoring a late equaliser to rescue a vital point.

Brazil made a dream start when Nicolly Manuel opened the scoring inside seven minutes, silencing the Ghanaian supporters.

However, Coach Nana Joe Adarkwa’s side responded positively and gradually found their rhythm. Defender Rafia Osman restored parity in the 31st minute, rising highest to power home Ghana’s equaliser.

The Black Maidens continued to press and completed the turnaround just four minutes later. Gloria Ameaa found the back of the net in the 35th minute to put Ghana 2-1 ahead.

Just when Ghana appeared poised to take their lead into the break, Brazil struck back. Kaillany Ranifah levelled the score in the 44th minute to ensure the teams went into half-time at 2-2.

Brazil regained the advantage after the restart when Indy scored to put the South Americans ahead once again.

Ghana refused to give up and continued to search for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 85th minute when substitute Priscilla Mensah tapped home after a delightful delivery from Jessica Appiah Asamoah, who caused Brazil’s defence problems throughout the contest.

The late goal secured Ghana a share of the spoils in an entertaining encounter and kept their hopes of progressing to the next stage alive.

The result leaves the Black Maidens with one point from two matches following their 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening game on Sunday.

Ghana must now beat Canada in their final Group C fixture to stand a chance of advancing to the knockout stage.