Princesses set for World Cup journey

In 14-days time, Ghana's eyes on another World Cup journey will begin at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

For the Black Princesses, they have one simple task, going beyond the group stage to put women's football on another pedestal.


Ghana, two years ago in Germany, made their debut appearance at the finals of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup but exited in the group stage.


This time round in Japan, coach Robert Sackey has set his sights on putting his mark on the tournament which has paired the Black Princesses against two-time champions, the United States, China PR and reigning champions Germany in Group D.


“Realistically speaking our first ambition is to get to the quarter-finals. If we manage that then of course we’ll be aiming for the trophy,” an optimistic Sackey said.


“I have great hopes for this side,” he added as he prepares his team in the United States.

“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.”


Ghana's opening game in Group D is against the world’s top ranked side and winner of the tournament in 2002 and 2008, U.S in Hiroshima on 20th August, a day after the 21-day tournament commences.


Robert Sackey's side will follow up on their opener against reigning champions, Germany three days later at the same venue.


The Black Princesses will conclude the group stage fixtures against China PR in Saitama on 27th August.


It's a tough pairing for Sackey's side, but he is adamant that it would play into his side’s hands.

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


Group D fixtures:


20th August: Ghana vs USA


23rd August: Ghana vs Germany


27th August: China PR vs Ghana