Ghana’s Black Maidens booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Argentina 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time on Wednesday.
The victory marks a major milestone for Ghana, who are making their seventh appearance at the tournament and have reached the last eight for the first time since 2018.
The Black Maidens made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the 16th minute when Jessica Appiah finished off a pass from Obinsrewuo. Ghana went into the break with a narrow advantage but failed to capitalise on several chances to extend their lead.
Goalkeeper Belinda Aklie proved instrumental with a series of crucial saves as Argentina pressed for an equaliser. Ghana’s challenge intensified in the 77th minute when Hajara Adam was shown a second yellow card and sent off.
Argentina eventually made their numerical advantage count, with Mercedes Diz heading home in the 86th minute to level the scores. The strike, her seventh goal of the tournament, sent the contest to a penalty shootout after neither side could find a winner.
Ghana held their composure from the spot, converting their penalties to secure a 5-4 shootout triumph and seal a place in the quarter-finals.
The result continues the Black Maidens’ strong tradition at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. Ghana previously reached the quarter-finals in 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018, and famously claimed bronze at the 2012 tournament in Azerbaijan.
After an eight-year absence from the global showpiece, the latest achievement signals a strong return to the international stage for the Black Maidens.
Ghana will now face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Japan and Kenya as they seek to continue their impressive campaign and push for a place in the semi-finals.
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