FIFA U-17 WWC: Ghana and Canada Unveil Starting XIs for Crucial Group C Clash

Ghana’s Black Maidens and Canada have announced their starting lineups for their final Group C encounter at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with both sides preparing for a decisive battle at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat.

Ghana head into the fixture seeking their first victory of the tournament after opening their campaign with a 3-0 defeat to Norway before battling to an entertaining 3-3 draw against Brazil. Canada, meanwhile, recorded a 2-6 defeat to Brazil before recovering with a 3-2 victory over Norway.

Black Maidens head coach Nana Joe Adarkwa has opted for a 4-2-3-1 system, with Belinda Aklie starting in goal.

The defensive line features Hajara Adam, Rafia Osman, Sarafina Essenam and Juliana Gyekyewaa, while Seidatu Wahab and Latifa Musah will operate in midfield.

Jessica Appiah, Sekinatu Amadu and Gloria Ameaa will provide attacking support behind Cynthia Obinsrewuo, who leads the line as Ghana target a crucial result.

Canada have selected a 4-4-2 formation, with Megan Lemieux entrusted with the goalkeeping duties.

Elizabeth Proulx, Christ-Mayron Brou, Adrianna Giese and Laure Langlois form the defensive unit.

In midfield, Isabella Lanzillotta and Chloe Scicchitano will operate alongside Mélyna Alexis and Lacey Kindel, while Reed Tingley and Gabriela Istocki lead the attack.

Tingley will be one to watch after emerging as Canada’s leading scorer with three goals in the tournament so far.

With Ghana entering the final group fixture on one point, the Black Maidens face a significant challenge as they pursue a victory to strengthen their hopes of progressing in the competition.

Canada, on three points before kickoff, will also be determined to secure a positive result and improve their position in Group C.

Ghana’s attacking approach will be tested against Canada’s two-forward system in what promises to be a competitive contest, with both teams aware of the importance of the result.

The Black Maidens will hope to turn their encouraging attacking display against Brazil into a winning performance and keep their World Cup campaign alive.