Ghana’s Black Maidens have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after edging Argentina 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time on Wednesday.
The hard-fought victory marks an impressive return to the global competition for Ghana, who have reached the last eight for the first time since 2018 after missing the previous two editions.
The Black Maidens made a bright start to the Round of 16 encounter and took the lead in the 16th minute through Jessica Appiah, who finished off a pass from Obinsrewuo to put Ghana in front.
Ghana maintained their advantage until the break but were unable to convert several opportunities to extend their lead and give themselves a more comfortable cushion.
Goalkeeper Belinda Aklie proved crucial during the contest, making important saves to frustrate Argentina and preserve Ghana’s advantage as their opponents pushed for an equaliser.
However, the Black Maidens suffered a setback in the 77th minute when Hajara Adam was sent off after receiving her second yellow card, leaving Ghana to finish the game with 10 players.
Argentina capitalised on their numerical advantage and drew level in the 86th minute through Mercedes Diz, whose header brought her tournament tally to seven goals.
Neither side managed to find a decisive goal before the end of regulation time, forcing the encounter into a penalty shootout to determine which team would advance.
Ghana kept their composure from the spot, converting their opportunities to secure a 5-4 victory and spark celebrations as they progressed to the quarter-finals.
The result adds another chapter to the Black Maidens’ history at the tournament. Ghana previously reached the quarter-finals in 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018, making this their fifth appearance in the last eight.
After an eight-year absence from the competition, the team’s progress represents a significant milestone in their return to the world stage.
The Black Maidens will now turn their attention to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Japan and Kenya as they continue their bid for a successful campaign in Morocco.
