By Nadia Ntiamoah
Ghana’s long-standing wait for a place in the knockout stage of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup has continued after the Black Princesses suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to France in their decisive Group C encounter on Saturday.
The defeat ended Ghana’s hopes of making history at the tournament, despite a spirited response in their second group match. The Black Princesses entered the France clash knowing that only a positive result would keep their campaign alive, but they were ultimately overwhelmed by a French side that finished the group stage as winners.
France took control when Clara Bertrand opened the scoring before Justine Rouquet extended the advantage. Rouquet then completed her brace to put the European side firmly in command, while Ornella Graziani added a fourth goal to complete a comprehensive victory.
The result leaves France top of Group C and through to the last 16, where they will face Canada. Korea Republic finished second after beating Ecuador 3-2 and will meet Argentina in the knockout phase. Ecuador, despite losing, remain in contention for qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.
For Ghana, however, the defeat brings another disappointing World Cup campaign to an end.
The Black Princesses had started the tournament with a 3-0 defeat to Ecuador before recovering strongly to beat Korea Republic 3-1 in their second group game.
That victory had revived their hopes of finally progressing beyond the group stage, but they were unable to produce another positive result against France.
Ghana’s elimination means they have once again failed to reach the knockout stage of the U-20 Women’s World Cup, extending their wait for a breakthrough in the competition.
