Princesses kick off against United States

Ghana's Under-20 women’s team kick off the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup on Monday against the United States.

Drawn in Group D alongside China PR, the Black Princesses will also face 2004 and 2010 world champions Germany.


The tight-looking Group D opens at the Hiroshima Big Arch Stadium for the Black Princesses as they make their second appearance at the competition.


Coming up against one of the most successful team in the competition’s history, the U.S, will certainly up the stakes for coach Robert Sackey's side who are determined to go beyond the group stage.


Sackey is unfazed by the challenges as he sets sights on ensuring that his team remain competitive.

“I have great hopes for this side,” he enthused. “I don’t rely on a single player to get us through, but on the team as a whole. They’re all extremely talented and I expect every one of them to give 100 per cent.”


The Ghana coach has shown huge faith in his team's ability to deliver exceptional performances and he hopes it starts against the United States.


“We know how strong a group this is,” Sackey explained.


“But when opponents see you as the weaker side that puts the pressure on them. We are going to be calm and if they run out onto the pitch thinking the game is already won, we’ll fight back fiercely. We won’t be easy pickings.”