U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers: Black Princesses Book Next-Stage Ticket with Away Win Over South Africa
Ghana’s Black Princesses have taken a significant step toward another FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup appearance after eliminating South Africa in the latest round of qualifiers.
The Princesses sealed progression with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the second leg at the Nelspruit-Mbombela Stadium on Sunday, securing aggregate qualification following a 2-2 draw in the first encounter in Accra.
After a cagey first half that produced few clear-cut chances, Ghana raised their intensity after the interval and began to dictate the tempo of the contest. Their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Priscilla Mensah found the breakthrough, calmly slotting home the decisive goal that swung the tie in Ghana’s favour.
Head coach Charles Sampson opted for a strong and balanced lineup, determined to correct the defensive lapses that cost his side in the first leg. His players responded with a disciplined and composed performance, shutting down South Africa’s attacking threats while creating opportunities of their own.
The victory keeps Ghana firmly on course for another appearance on the global stage, with the team now set to face either Zambia or Uganda in the next qualifying round.
The Black Princesses are chasing a record-extending eighth consecutive FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup berth, with the 2026 tournament scheduled to be staged in Poland.
