Watch as Black Maidens eliminate Argentina on penalties to reach next round

Ghana’s Black Maidens

Ghana’s Black Maidens have advanced to the next round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Argentina 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Jessica Appiah Asamoah emerged as Ghana’s hero, converting the decisive penalty to seal qualification after a dramatic encounter.

The Black Maidens made a bright start, taking the lead in the 16th minute through Appiah Asamoah, who put Ghana in control of the contest.

Ghana appeared to have extended their advantage in the 50th minute when Cynthia Obinsrewuo scored, but the goal was disallowed for offside. She was replaced by Priscilla Mensah two minutes later.

The team suffered another blow in the 72nd minute when captain Seidatu Wahab was forced off with an injury, with Belinda Kpentey introduced as her replacement.

Ghana’s hopes of securing victory in regulation time took a further hit in the 77th minute when Hajara Adam was sent off after receiving her second yellow card, forcing the Black Maidens to continue with 10 players.

Argentina pressed for an equaliser and eventually found one in the 86th minute through Diz. The goal followed a free-kick situation after substitute Zeinab Shani was booked for a foul on an Argentine player.

Despite conceding late and playing with a numerical disadvantage, Ghana defended resolutely through the additional time to take the match to a penalty shootout.

The Black Maidens held their nerve from the spot, with Essenam converting the opening kick before Christiana Ashiaku and captain Osman also scored.

Juliana Gyekyewaa netted Ghana’s fourth penalty before Appiah Asamoah stepped up to convert the decisive kick and secure a 5-4 shootout victory.

Goalkeeper Belinda Maku Aklie was also crucial to Ghana’s survival, producing several important saves during the encounter to keep the team in contention.

The victory sends Ghana into the next round, where they will meet either Japan or Kenya, depending on the outcome of the corresponding fixture.

The Black Maidens demonstrated resilience and determination to overcome Argentina despite losing their captain to injury, going down to 10 players and conceding a late equaliser, keeping their World Cup campaign alive.

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