Ghana’s U-15 girls’ team, the Black Damsels, have etched their name into football history by successfully defending their CAF African Schools Football Championship title.

In a high-stakes final in Harare, the Damsels overcame a resilient Burkina Faso side in a marathon penalty shootout, winning 10-9 after the match ended goalless in regulation time.

This victory marks a consecutive continental triumph for the team, solidifying Ghana’s position as the premier destination for school-age women’s football in Africa.

The Road to the Podium

The Damsels’ journey to the 2026 title was a testament to both their offensive firepower and their defensive resolve. They navigated a tough Group B and a tense knockout phase to remain at the top.

Tournament Excellence

Beyond the collective glory, the Black Damsels swept most of the individual awards.

Best Player: Jennifer Awuku was named the tournament’s most outstanding player for her playmaking and leadership on the field.

Top Scorer: Margaret Tawiah finished as one of the competition’s leading threats with three goals.

Golden Glove: The Ghanaian defense, anchored by stellar goalkeeping, conceded only two goals in open play throughout the entire campaign.

This back-to-back success ensures that the $300,000 prize money will go toward further developing sports and educational infrastructure in Ghanaian schools, to further continue the legacy of this “golden generation”.

The CAF African Schools Football Championship was launched by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe in 2022. This initiative uses the power of football to drive social change and educational excellence in African schools.