Ghana’s Black Maidens fall to Japan in U-17 Women’s World Cup quarter-final

Home Home Latest News Latest News World Footaball World Footaball Ghana Players Abroad Ghana Players Abroad Ghana Premier League Ghana Premier League National Teams National Teams Videos Videos Black Stars Black Stars Transfer News & Rumours Transfer News & Rumours Kotoko Kotoko Hearts Of Oak Hearts Of Oak Ghana’s Black Maidens fall to Japan in U-17 Women’s World Cup quarter-final 02 November 2026 Share this with Email Share this with Facebook Share this with Twitter Share this with Whatsapp Ghana’s Black Maidens were knocked out of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 after a 1-0 quarter-final defeat by Japan at the Mohammed VI Football Complex – Pitch 1.

Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side produced a disciplined defensive display for much of the first half, frustrating a Japan team that had been expected to pose a significant attacking threat.

The Ghana coach had to make two changes to his starting line-up for the decisive tie. Captain Seidatu Wahab was unavailable because of injury, meaning Osman Rafia took over the captaincy, while Hajara Adam missed the match through suspension following her red card against Argentina.

Mavis Koah and Kpentey Belinda were brought into the starting XI.

Ghana’s organisation limited Japan’s opportunities before the break, with the Black Maidens maintaining the defensive shape Adarkwa had promised before the match. Japan eventually found a way through nine minutes after half-time.

Yuka Kishida’s effort took a ricochet and fell into the path of Nanami Kurita near the Ghana goal. Kurita reacted quickly and finished the chance to put Japan ahead in the 54th minute.

The Black Maidens responded by searching for an equaliser and displayed the determination that had carried them past Argentina in the Round of 16. Ghana had won that tie on penalties despite being reduced to 10 players.

However, Japan’s control of possession and disciplined approach made it difficult for Ghana to build sustained pressure or impose its game on the quarter-final.

The result ended Ghana’s campaign at the last-eight stage, but the Black Maidens leave the tournament after a resilient run that included their victory over Argentina and a series of determined performances.

Jessica Appiah, Cynthia Obinsrewuo, Osman Rafia and Belinda Marku Aklie were among the players to stand out during Ghana’s campaign.