Black Princesses Fall 4-1 to Japan in FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Group Stage
The Black Princesses of Ghana were handed a 4-1 defeat by Japan in their second group stage match at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Despite a strong start in the first 40 minutes of Thursday’s game, the Ghanaians struggled to maintain their momentum.
Ghana entered the match following a 2-1 loss to Austria, while Japan had demolished New Zealand 7-0 in their opening game. The Black Princesses displayed resilience in the first half, matching Japan’s intensity for much of the opening period.
However, the tide turned just before half-time when Japan’s Chinari Sasai broke through Ghana’s defense to score the opener. In added time, Manaka Matsukubo doubled Japan’s lead, leaving the Ghanaians trailing as they entered the break.
Japan, the 2018 champions, continued their dominance after the interval, adding a third goal and putting the game out of reach for Yusif Basigi’s side.
Despite the uphill battle, Black Princesses captain Stella Nyamekye remained a constant threat to Japan’s defense. Her persistence paid off when she earned and converted a penalty in the 83rd minute, offering Ghana a glimmer of hope.
However, Japan sealed the game with a fourth goal in the dying moments, securing their spot in the next round of the tournament. The Black Princesses now face a must-win match against New Zealand on Sunday to keep their chances of advancing alive.
For coach Yusif Basigi, the challenge of breaking the cycle of early exits at this level remains a difficult task as Ghana’s U-20 women’s team fights to stay in the tournament.
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