Didi targets third-time improvement with Maidens

Expectations appear high as Ghana's U-17 women's team take the stage on Sunday in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Azerbaijan 2012.

The Black Maidens, making their third appearance at the tournament have yet to reach the second round after two previous attempts all ended at the group stage.

Mas-ud Didi Dramani's side after a strong showing in the qualifiers meet familiar opponents, Germany in Baku in the opening Group D fixture.

Both sides have a history in this age competition. Four years ago, they were paired in the same group as the Germans won 3-2.

But Didi Dramani is charging his Black Maidens to go further than they managed at their two previous outings.

"We will try to beat the standard set by the classes of 2008 and 2010. Our first target will be to go beyond the group stage and if we manage that, we will adjust,” the Ghana coach said.

First-time finalists Uruguay and China PR face off in the other game in Group D.

The top two finishers from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.