Ghana’s U20 women’s national team, the Black Princesses, began their WAFU B U20 Girls’ Cup title defence with a composed 2-0 victory over host nation Benin on Friday, November 7.
The defending champions relied on their wide play and quick transitions to control the early stages but were initially denied by Benin’s compact defence.
Their persistence paid off midway through the first half when Diana Amoako’s precise long pass found Agnes Yeboah, who unselfishly squared for Linda Owusu Ansah to slot home in the 23rd minute.
Benin struggled to respond, rarely troubling the Ghanaian defence as the visitors maintained control and went into half-time with a deserved lead.
After the break, head coach Charles Sampson introduced Sarah Nyarko, whose presence brought fresh energy to the attack.
The Dreamz Ladies midfielder sealed the win in the 78th minute with a composed finish to make it 2-0.
Latifa Musa delivered a standout performance in midfield, dictating play and earning the Player of the Match award for her composure and control.
The result gives Ghana a strong start to their campaign as they aim to defend the trophy they won last year.
The Black Princesses will next face arch-rivals Nigeria on Saturday, November 8, in what promises to be a decisive group encounter.
