Ghana’s Black Princesses began their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup with a disappointing defeat to Austria in Colombia.
Ghana lost 1-2 to Austria, who were making their debut appearance at the Mundial at that level.
Coach Yussif Basigi named a strong lineup for the game against the Austrians with his team starting as favorites.
However, Hannah Frankhauser struck the Austrians into the lead when she had an easy tap-in after a sloppy defending from the Black Princesses in the 12th minute of the game.
Ghana responded by growing into the game after conceding the goal, but attempts by captain Stella Nyamekye and Jennifer Owusuaa produced wonderful saves by the Austrian goalkeeper. The game went into recess with the Europeans in the lead.
Yusif Basigi’s side came back from recess the better side and created decent chances, but the team was unsuccessful with any of their efforts, including an effort from captain Nyamekye hitting the crossbar.
Ghana conceded a second goal after giving away a penalty in the 70th minute after the ball came off the hand of Asana Alhassan.
Deadball specialist Nicole Ojukwu stepped up to convert the resulting penalty to give the Austrians a 2-0 lead with twenty minutes to end the game.
Despite the large spell of possession, Ghana had to wait until the 93rd minute when Stella Nyamekye sent a powerful shot past the Austrian goalkeeper to reduce the deficit.
Ghana pushed for the leveler with a few minutes remaining, but they could not as the game ended 1-2, marking a defeat for Ghana in their opening match.
The Black Princesses’ next game is against 2018 champions, Japan, on Thursday at 22:00 GMT.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Benjamin Yamoah
