The Black Maidens are set for a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash against Argentina at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
The crucial fixture comes just three days after Joe Nana Adarkwa‘s side secured qualification with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Canada in their final Group C game.
Ghana endured a difficult start, losing 3-0 to Norway in their opener, before producing a spirited comeback to draw 3-3 with Brazil in the second game. The Maidens then delivered when it mattered most, beating Canada 2-0 with goals from super-subs Linda Achiaa (65′) and Christiana Ashiaku (90+5′) to finish with four points and advance as one of the top two teams from the Group.
Argentina, meanwhile, topped their group with an impressive unbeaten run and will head into the knockout stage as favourites. The South Americans are known for their technical play and physical intensity.
Coach Nana Adarkwa is expected to keep faith with the core of the side that beat Canada, with Player of the Match against Canada, Seidatu Wahab, and Jessica Appiah set to be crucial in midfield.
The coach’s substitutions proved decisive against Canada — with Achiaa scoring just 35 seconds after coming on — and his bench could once again be key against Argentina.
Goalkeeper Belinda Aku Aklie, defenders Rafia Osman, Hajara Adam, Latifa Musah and Seraphina Esse Essenam will need to be at their best to contain Argentina’s attack, while Priscilla Mensah and Christiana Ashiaku offer potent options from the bench.
“We know we are heading to difficult times. We are going to face tougher opposition, and we are going to work towards that,” Adarkwa said after the Canada win.
“We came here purposely for a win and it happened. Now we must do it again.” A win will send Ghana into the quarterfinals of the competition.
