The Black Princesses of Ghana suffered defeat in their first game of the 2024 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup ongoing in Colombia.
In a shocking turn of events, the Black Princesses fell to Austria in a game many believed presented Ghana’s best opportunity for qualification to the next round.
Coach Yussif Basigi’s charges were handed a 2-1 defeat by Austria, whose resort to long balls worked effectively well.
Austria had a blistering start to the game and went ahead as early as the 12th minute through forward Hannah Fankhauser.
The dominance of Austria continued as Ghana huffed and puffed to gain some control of the match.
Austria got a deserving second goal in the 71st minute through midfielder Nicole Ojukwu, who confidently converted to double their lead.
In the dying embers of the game, Ghana found their groove and got a goal from skipper Stella Nyamekye.
The goal was, however, too late to spur a comeback for Ghana as Austria managed to see it off.
Ghana now faces an uphill yet possible task in their next game against Japan on September 5.
Ghana will wrap up the group with a game against New Zealand on September 8.
EK