By Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s Black Princesses advanced to the next stage of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa U-20 Women in the return leg on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Nelspruit-Mbombela Stadium.
A 3-2 win on aggregate following a 2-2 draw in the first leg at Accra Sports Stadium, propels the West Africans closer to another global showdown.
The match remained tense through a scoreless first half, with both sides trading chances under the South African sun.
Ghana ramped up the pressure after the break, dominating possession and creating openings that tested the hosts’ resolve.
Midfielder Priscilla Mensah emerged as the hero in the 63rd minute, unleashing a precise strike that broke the deadlock and sealed qualification.
Her composure under pressure turned the tide, sparking jubilant celebrations among the traveling Ghanaian contingent.
Head coach Charles Simpson’s tactical tweaks paid off, as he fielded a robust lineup determined to shake off the frustrations of the opening draw.
With eyes now on a potential showdown against Zambia or Uganda, the Black Princesses chase a record-extending eighth straight appearance at the tournament, set for Poland in September 2026.
