Ghana target semi-final place after surviving Argentina shootout

Ghana coach Joe Nana Adarkwah has challenged the Black Maidens to reach the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup semi-finals after their dramatic victory over Argentina.

Ghana progressed 5–4 on penalties following a 1–1 draw in their round-of-16 match on Wednesday, 28 October.

Jessica Appiah opened the scoring in the 16th minute, finishing from Cynthia Obinsrewuo’s delivery. Argentina threatened a response, with Mercedes Diz striking the crossbar before Ghana’s task became more difficult.

Hajara Adam received a second yellow card in the 77th minute, leaving the Black Maidens to protect their narrow lead with 10 players.

Diz eventually equalised in the 86th minute, heading home from a free kick to keep Argentina in the contest.

Ghana recovered their composure for the shootout. All five of their penalties were converted, while Oriana Gomez missed for Argentina.

Appiah, who also received the Player of the Match award, converted the decisive kick to complete a memorable individual performance.

Adarkwah praised his players’ discipline and their response to the dismissal. Speaking to the Ghana Football Association after the match, he said his team had followed instructions and deserved to celebrate their progression.

“We have to qualify to the semi-finals,” he said.

The result represents another recovery in Ghana’s tournament. Their group campaign began with defeat to Norway, followed by a draw against Brazil and a victory over Canada that secured knockout qualification.

Against Argentina, the Black Maidens again found a way through adversity. Their next challenge is to turn that resilience into another place in the competition’s final four.