Jessica Appiah emerged as the heroine for Ghana’s Black Maidens , scoring the opening goal and converting the decisive penalty to propel Ghana into the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Black Maidens edged Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout after both sides settled for a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Ghana took the lead in the 16th minute through Jessica Appiah, who showcased her brilliance by dribbling past a defender before calmly finding the back of the net.
Argentina responded with resilience, threatening the Ghanaian defence and coming close to drawing level, with one of their efforts rattling the crossbar.
The Maidens thought they had doubled their advantage through Obinsrewuo, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Ghana’s task became even more difficult in the 77th minute when Hajara Adam was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving the Maidens to battle with ten players.
Argentina capitalised on their numerical advantage, with Mercedes Diz heading home the equaliser in the 86th minute to force the contest into a penalty shootout.
With the pressure mounting, the Black Maidens held their nerve from the spot, converting all five of their penalties.
Argentina’s Oriana Gomez missed her attempt, leaving Jessica Appiah with the opportunity to seal Ghana’s progression.
The Ghanaian forward made no mistake, converting the decisive kick to complete a perfect five-out-of-five record for the Maidens and send Ghana into the quarter-finals.
A heroic performance from Jessica Appiah as the Black Maidens continue their World Cup journey.
By Nurudeen Abdul Malik
