WATCH: Black Maidens Beat Argentina on Penalties to Reach U-17 World Cup Quarter-Finals

Ghana’s U-17 women’s national team, the Black Maidens, have secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Argentina 5–4 on penalties following a 1–1 draw in regulation time.

The encounter, played in Morocco on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, saw the Ghanaian side demonstrate determination and composure to advance to the next stage of the competition despite facing a late equaliser and finishing the match with 10 players.

Ghana took the lead in the 16th minute through Jessica Appiah, who finished off an attacking move after receiving a pass from Cynthia Obinsrewuo. The early goal gave the Black Maidens an advantage and placed Argentina under pressure to find a response.

The South American side continued to search for an equaliser as the game progressed. Ghana appeared poised to protect their lead, but Argentina found a way back into the contest late in the second half.

Mercedes Diz scored in the 86th minute, heading home from a free-kick delivery to bring Argentina level at 1–1. The late goal forced the match into a penalty shootout after neither side managed to secure a winner during regulation time.

Ghana’s challenge became more difficult when Hajara Adam received a second yellow card, leaving the team with 10 players during the closing stages. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Black Maidens maintained their composure and took the contest to penalties.

The shootout proved decisive, with Ghana converting all five of their attempts. Argentina, meanwhile, missed one of their penalties through Oriana Gomez, giving the Ghanaian team the opportunity to seal qualification.

Jessica Appiah stepped forward to convert Ghana’s fifth and winning penalty, completing a memorable performance after scoring the team’s goal during regulation time. Her contribution was also recognised with the Player of the Match award.

The victory marks an important moment in Ghana’s campaign at the tournament, with the team progressing to the last eight after an eight-year absence from the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Black Maidens’ performance highlighted their ability to remain focused under pressure, particularly after Argentina’s late equaliser and the dismissal of one of their players.

Their successful penalty execution ultimately proved crucial in a closely contested encounter in which both teams had opportunities to progress.

Ghana will now turn their attention to the quarter-finals as they seek to continue their run in the competition. The win over Argentina provides the young team with an opportunity to build on their performance and pursue further progress on the international stage.

— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) October 28, 2026

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