FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Adarkwah targets semi-final spot after Black Maidens beat Argentina

Black Maidens head coach Joe Nana Adarkwah says Ghana are determined to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after beating Argentina 5-4 on penalties on Wednesday, to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Ghana showed resilience to advance after playing with 10 players for the final 13 minutes following Hajara Adam’s dismissal. Jessica Appiah converted the decisive penalty to seal the victory.

An elated Adarkwah praised his players for their performance and tactical discipline, expressing pride in their achievement.

“Matches like this, it’s not easy. So, after winning it, you have to celebrate,” he said. “I’m very happy and I’m proud for the girls. We have done well.”

He added that Ghana had controlled the game before the red card but commended the players for following their tactical instructions despite the setback.

Looking ahead to the quarter-finals, the coach expressed confidence in his side’s ability to progress further in the competition.

“We are waiting for our next opponent, and we will deal with them, whatever it is. We have to qualify to the semi-finals,” he declared.