Head coach of the Ghana women’s national under-20 football team, Charles Sampson, has praised his players for their determination and resilience after securing qualification to the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
The Black Princesses booked their place at the tournament following a hard-fought draw against Uganda women’s national under-20 football team in Kampala, advancing 3-2 on aggregate after surviving a tense second-leg encounter.
Speaking after the match, Sampson revealed that qualification had been the team’s main target since the beginning of their campaign in January last year.
According to the coach, Ghana intended to build a comfortable advantage in the first leg at home, but Uganda proved difficult opponents and disrupted their rhythm, especially in midfield. Despite the challenges, he said tactical adjustments in the second half helped the team regain control.
Sampson explained that the Black Princesses approached the return leg with an attacking mindset, anticipating Uganda would push aggressively in search of qualification. Although the hosts scored a goal that briefly threatened Ghana’s hopes, the coach applauded his players for showing immense character under pressure.
He expressed particular admiration for the team’s resilience after being reduced to 10 players during the game, insisting their fighting spirit and refusal to give up ultimately secured qualification.
Sampson also praised Uganda for providing a tough test, noting that overcoming such strong opposition made the achievement even more satisfying.
The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will be staged in Poland from September 5 to September 27, 2026.
