Former Hearts of Oak goalkeeper James Tetteh Nanor is drawing on his experience between the posts to help shape Ghana’s next generation of female goalkeepers at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Now serving as goalkeeper trainer for the Black Maidens, Nanor has taken up the responsibility of developing the young shot-stoppers, working on key aspects of their game, including reflexes, positioning, shot-stopping and confidence.

It is a role that allows the former goalkeeper to pass on lessons from a playing career that saw him enjoy considerable success with one of Ghana’s biggest clubs.

A decorated career with Hearts of Oak

Nanor was part of the celebrated Hearts of Oak side that dominated Ghanaian football between the late 1990s and early 2000s.

During his time with the Phobians, he won six Ghana Premier League titles and two FA Cup trophies, establishing himself as part of a successful generation at the club.

He also represented Ghana at international level, earning 10 caps for the senior national team and being included in the Black Stars squad for the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations in Mali.

After hanging up his gloves, Nanor transitioned into coaching, taking up goalkeeper training roles, including a return to Hearts of Oak in 2016.

A new assignment on the world stage

His current work with the Black Maidens comes as Ghana continue their campaign at the U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The team secured a place in the quarter-finals after beating Argentina 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the Round of 16.

Ghana goalkeeper Belinda Maku Aklie and her teammates held firm even after the Black Maidens were reduced to 10 players.

Ghana will now face Japan on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 15:00 GMT, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

The tournament provides Nanor another opportunity to contribute to Ghanaian football, as he helps young goalkeepers build the skills and confidence needed to perform on the international stage.

FKA/MA