Ghana’s Black Maidens have advanced to the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout, with Jessica Appiah scoring the decisive spot kick despite Ghana playing with 10 players.
Appiah opened the scoring for Ghana after connecting with a well-timed pass from Cynthia Obinsrewuo, giving the Black Maidens an early advantage in a fiercely contested encounter.
Argentina threatened to equalise, with Mercedes Diz coming close after striking the crossbar. Ghana thought they had doubled their lead when Obinsrewuo lobbed goalkeeper Bianca Virga, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
The match became more challenging for Ghana when Hajara Adam received a second yellow card and was sent off with 13 minutes remaining.
Argentina capitalised on their numerical advantage when Diz headed home a looping free-kick to level the score, forcing the match to be decided by penalties.
However, Ghana demonstrated remarkable composure during the shootout. Argentina’s Oriana Gomez missed her penalty, while all five Ghanaian players successfully converted their attempts to secure qualification.
Jessica Appiah, Juliana Gyekyewaa, Rafia Osman, Christiana Ashiaku and Saraphina Essenam all scored from the penalty spot to seal a memorable victory for the Black Maidens.
The hard-fought win highlights Ghana’s determination, resilience and fighting spirit as the team progresses to the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Source: newsthemegh.com