FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Black Maidens of Ghana defeat Canada to set up Argentina clash

Ghana’s Black Maidens have secured a place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after recording a crucial 2-0 victory over Canada in their final Group B match in Morocco.

The victory earned Ghana the points needed to finish ahead of Canada and advance to the knockout stage. Canada, meanwhile, must wait for the other group results to determine whether they can progress as one of the four best third-placed teams.

The Black Maidens started positively, with Jessica Appiah producing one of the standout moments of the first half. The Ghanaian attacker drove forward through the Canadian defense before unleashing a powerful effort that goalkeeper Megan Lemieux brilliantly tipped onto the post.

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Despite Ghana’s attacking intent, the breakthrough arrived after coach Joe Nana Adarkwa made a double substitution, with the changes proving decisive.

Hajara Adam delivered a looping pass downfield that struck the post, and the rebound fell to Priscilla Mensah. She quickly picked out fellow substitute Linda Achiaa, who calmly finished with her first touch just 35 seconds after entering the game to give Ghana the lead.

The goal lifted Ghana’s confidence as they sought to protect their advantage and secure qualification for the next round.

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Canada pushed for an equalizer, but the Black Maidens held firm before sealing the result in stoppage time. Substitute Christiana Ashiaku unleashed a long-range strike to score Ghana’s second goal and confirm a memorable victory.

The late strike sparked celebrations among the Ghanaian players and technical team, capping a determined performance in a decisive group-stage encounter.

Black Maidens set up Argentina clash

Ghana will now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they are scheduled to face Argentina as they continue their campaign at the tournament.

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The qualification marks a strong response from the Black Maidens after a difficult opening defeat to Norway, which ended 3-0. They subsequently showed their attacking quality in an entertaining 3-3 draw against Brazil before overcoming Canada to finish the group stage with four points from three matches.

The victory over Canada could provide a significant confidence boost as Ghana prepares for the knockout stages, where a single defeat would end their hopes of lifting the trophy.

With their substitutes making an immediate impact against Canada, the Black Maidens will hope to carry that momentum into their meeting with Argentina and continue their pursuit of success at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.