Ghana's Black Maidens chase a U-17 Women's World Cup quarter-final spot, and coach Joe Nana Adarkwa promises a sharper, bolder display against Argentina.
Ghana's Black Maidens are one win from the U-17 Women's World Cup quarter-finals, and coach Joe Nana Adarkwa has promised a more aggressive Ghanaian side when they meet Argentina in the Round of 16 in Morocco on Wednesday, October 28.
The Maidens have had to fight their way to this point. They opened Group C with a 3-0 loss to Norway, then bounced back with a thrilling 3-3 draw against Brazil. A 2-0 win over Canada in their last group game sealed second place and a knockout ticket.
Argentina, meanwhile, topped their group without losing a match, so this is a real test. Adarkwa sees plenty of familiar traits in the South Americans. He says they play much like Brazil, and that Ghana will build on the intensity they showed in that draw and push harder still.
He also believes the styles will suit Ghana. In his view, South American sides share the Ghanaian habit of keeping the ball on the ground and playing football. That could make for an open, entertaining contest.
The stakes could not be higher. In a knockout game, one mistake can end a team's tournament, and Adarkwa knows his players must stay sharp for the full match. With a place in the last eight on the line, the Black Maidens are ready to go all in.
