By Just4WomenAfrica | October 29, 2026
Ghana’s Black Maidens have secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco after defeating Argentina 5–4 on penalties following a 1–1 draw in regulation time on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
The Round of 16 encounter tested Ghana’s resilience as the young team overcame a late equaliser and the disadvantage of playing with 10 players to keep their World Cup campaign alive. FIFA match report
Jessica Appiah Gives Ghana the Lead
Ghana made a bright start to the match, taking the lead in the 16th minute through Jessica Appiah, who finished a well-worked attacking move after receiving a pass from Cynthia Obinsrewuo.
The early goal gave the Black Maidens confidence as they sought to control the contest and secure a place in the last eight.
Argentina, however, remained dangerous and continued searching for an equaliser. Despite creating opportunities, they were unable to find a breakthrough before the interval.
Argentina Equalise as Ghana Play with 10 Players
Ghana’s task became more difficult in the 77th minute when Hajara Adam received a second yellow card and was sent off, leaving the Black Maidens with 10 players.
Argentina took advantage of their numerical superiority and drew level in the 86th minute through Mercedes Diz, who headed home from a looping free-kick to make it 1–1.
With neither team able to find a winner, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout.
Ghana Triumph in the Penalty Shootout
The Black Maidens demonstrated composure from the penalty spot, converting all five of their attempts to win the shootout 5–4.
Ghana’s successful penalty takers were:
- Saraphina Essinam
- Christiana Ashiaku
- Rafia Osman
- Juliana Gyekyewaa
- Jessica Appiah, who converted the decisive penalty.
Argentina’s Oriana Gomez missed her attempt, allowing Ghana to seal a memorable victory and advance to the quarter-finals.
Jessica Appiah’s contribution proved particularly significant, as she scored Ghana’s goal during normal time before converting the decisive spot-kick. She was also named Player of the Match.
A Significant Achievement for Ghana
The victory represents an important milestone for the Black Maidens, who demonstrated determination, discipline and mental strength under pressure.
Playing with 10 players during the closing stages, Ghana held on against Argentina before delivering a perfect performance from the penalty spot.
The result also marks Ghana’s return to the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time since 2018.
The Black Maidens will now prepare for their quarter-final encounter against the winner of the Round of 16 match between Japan and Kenya, as they continue their quest for a place in the semi-finals.
For Ghanaian football, the victory is another encouraging moment for women’s youth football and a reminder of the talent and potential within the country’s next generation of female players.
Full-time result: Argentina 1–1 Ghana
Penalty shootout: Argentina 4–5 Ghana
Goals
- Ghana: Jessica Appiah (16′)
- Argentina: Mercedes Diz (86′)
Player of the Match: Jessica Appiah (Ghana)
Source: FIFA and Ghana Football Association.
