The Black Princesses produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Uganda 2-1 in the first leg of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
Uganda stunned the home crowd in the 32nd minute with a well-taken opener, taking a slim advantage into the break after a disciplined first-half display.
However, Ghana returned from the interval and dominated large spells of the second half. The pressure of the Princesses eventually paid off in the 58th minute when substitute Priscilla Mensah rose highest to power home a header and restore parity, lifting the atmosphere inside the stadium.
The Princesses continued to pile on the pressure, but were repeatedly frustrated by Uganda’s inspired goalkeeper, who produced a series of important saves to keep her side level.
In the 85th minute, Latifa Abesik completed the comeback with a composed finish after being set up by Jessica Appiah, who provided a precise delivery from the flank.
Mensah came close to extending the lead late on, striking the woodwork twice in a dramatic finish to the contest.
The 2-1 victory hands Ghana a valuable advantage ahead of the return leg in Uganda, where the Black Princesses will aim to finish the job and keep their World Cup qualification hopes on track.
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