Black Maidens beat Argentina to reach U-17 World Cup quarter-finals

Ghana’s national U-17 women’s team, the Black Maidens, have advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after a 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Argentina. Following a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the match in Rabat, the Ghanaian side maintained their composure from the spot to secure their place in the tournament's final eight. This achievement marks the team's best performance in the global competition since 2018.

The Black Maidens took an early lead in the 16th minute when Jessica Appiah found the back of the net to put Ghana ahead. The team remained in control for much of the match but faced a significant challenge in the 77th minute when Hajara Adam was shown a red card. Argentina capitalized on the numerical advantage late in the game, with Mercedes Diz scoring an 86th-minute equalizer to force the match into a penalty shootout.

During the shootout, the Black Maidens displayed clinical accuracy by converting all five of their spot-kicks. Successive penalties from Gyekyewaa, Osman, Ashiaku, and Essenam kept the pressure on the South Americans. Jessica Appiah then emerged as the hero of the night, stepping up to convert the decisive fifth penalty to eliminate the Argentines and secure qualification for the next round.

The victory vindicates the optimism expressed by assistant coach Bashiru-Deen Sumaila, who had emphasized the team's readiness following their previous 2-0 win over Canada. Ghana’s defense remained resolute despite the late pressure, ensuring the match reached the shootout. The Black Maidens are now set to face the winner of the clash between Japan and Kenya in the upcoming quarter-final match.