By: Bernard Mensah
February 9, 2026
Ghana’s Black Princesses will head into the second leg of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier under intense pressure after surrendering a two-goal cushion against South Africa at the Accra Sports Stadium.
A dominant opening spell saw the Princesses take control of the contest, with Agnes Yeboah and Linda Owusu Ansah firing Ghana into what looked like a commanding 2-0 lead. At that stage, the hosts appeared firmly in charge, dictating play and positioning themselves for a comfortable advantage ahead of the return fixture.
But a lapse in concentration proved costly.
South Africa capitalised on a shift in tempo, growing in confidence as Ghana struggled to maintain control. The visitors’ response turned the tie on its head, transforming what had been a promising evening for the Princesses into a frustrating result that leaves the qualification race finely balanced.
The draw comes as a blow for Ghana, who had hoped to replicate the authority they showed against Tunisia in the previous round. Instead, the momentum now swings South Africa’s way, with the hosts of the second leg buoyed by their ability to recover from adversity — a trait they also displayed in their emphatic win over Eswatini.
With the return leg set for February 14, the task facing the Black Princesses is clear: tighten up defensively, manage game phases better, and deliver a composed away performance if they are to keep their Poland 2026 dream alive.
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