Black Princesses head coach, Charles Sampson
The Black Princesses head coach, Charles Sampson has explained the absence of some notable players from the U-20 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
The Princesses on Sunday, February 8, 2026, blew a 2-0 lead and drew 2-2 with South Africa in the first leg of the FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Speaking to the media after the game, coach Charles Sampson revealed that the missing players were unavailable due to a combination of injuries, fitness concerns, and technical decisions.
“We had a few players who were not fully fit, and we didn’t want to take any risks with their health,” the coach explained. Others were left out based on tactical reasons and the demands of the game,” he said.
The coach stressed that the squad remains strong despite the absentees, praising the players who stepped in to fill the gaps.
“We believe in the players who featured today. They showed character and discipline, and that’s exactly what we want to see,” coach Charles Sampson told the media.
The Black Princesses will face South Africa in the return leg of the U-20 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
PAH/JE
