Ghana's Black Maidens beat Argentina on penalties, and coach Joe Nana Adarkwah says no quarter-final opponent will stop them.
Ghana's Black Maidens are dreaming big at the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup, and head coach Joe Nana Adarkwah is making it clear that this young side has no plans to stop at the quarter-finals. The West Africans survived a tense Round of 16 shootout against Argentina in Morocco to keep their run alive on African soil.
Adarkwah felt his team had firm control of the contest early on, right up until the red card changed the complexion of the match. He praised the players for sticking to the tactical plan until they pulled level, then gave thanks that the penalty shootout went Ghana's way. The coach said he was delighted with the win.
Next up is a quarter-final against the winner of the Japan and Kenya tie, a clash that could set up a fascinating path for the Black Maidens. Whoever emerges, Adarkwah is not worried. He says his squad is waiting for its next opponent and will deal with them, whatever the name on the fixture list.
The message from the dugout is simple: Ghana must qualify for the semi-finals. With belief high after a nerve-shredding shootout win, the Black Maidens are carrying the hopes of a continent hungry for deep runs on the global stage.
