Black Princesses coach Basigi motivated for World Cup opener

Black Princesses coach Yussif Basigi has shared his motivation and perspective on the team's opening game against Austria in the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup.

Ghana will open their campaign on Monday night against Austria, with the Black Princesses hoping for a winning start.

"I am highly motivated and I am calm because it is not every coach who gets the opportunity to be on the world stage," Basigi said.

"You need to utilize it well." He emphasized the significance of the tournament for the players, noting that it could be a pivotal moment in their careers.

"I have made the girls understand that this might be the last opportunity for most of them to showcase their talents or a chance to play for the senior team. This is their chance to justify why they should be included."

In addition to the motivation within the team, Basigi highlighted that the head coach of the senior national team is also in Colombia to assess some of the players, which he described as a remarkable development.

This added layer of scrutiny and opportunity adds to the players' drive to perform well and make a strong impression.

The Black Princesses have been in Colombia since August 14, acclimatizing to the altitude and preparing through friendly matches against South Korea and Mexico.

With a blend of experienced and emerging talents, the team is eager to start their World Cup campaign on a high note and break past their previous group stage exits.