Ghana have announced their 21-player squad for the Women’s Under-20 World Cup, where the Black Princesses will face France, South Korea and Ecuador in Group C.
The tournament will mark Ghana’s eighth appearance at the global competition, making them the second-most experienced African nation in terms of participation. However, the Black Princesses have never progressed beyond the opening round.
Breaking that record will be the main objective for Ghana head coach Sampson Charles, who will lead a squad aiming to create history at the tournament.
The selection includes a strong attacking presence, with seven forwards named alongside only four midfielders. Ghana have also selected three goalkeepers and seven defenders for their campaign.
The Black Princesses will begin the competition in Group C against three opponents in France, South Korea and Ecuador. Their place in the group means they will have to overcome a demanding opening phase if they are to reach the knockout stages for the first time.
Ghana have regularly featured among Africa’s representatives at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup, but their previous appearances have ended before the group stage was successfully negotiated. Charles has therefore been entrusted with a squad that combines experience and attacking depth as the team seeks to change that record.
The Ghana squad for the Women’s Under-20 World Cup is:
Goalkeepers: Salam Najat, Akanguwie Precious, Agudu-Sebbie Ruth
Defenders: Abdul Rahim Salma Naazo, Amoako Diana, Osei Rubby, Tay Alexandra, Agyapomaa Margaret, Gyekyewaa Juliana, Asante Precious
Midfielders: Musah Latifa, Abesik Latifa, Yiadom Esther Asamoah, Nyarko Sarah
Forwards: Ntoso Jackline, Mensah Priscilla, Amponsah Ruth, Akanyirege Angel, Osei Ivy Owusu, Dawah Jennifer, Yeboah Agnes
The balance of the squad reflects Ghana’s attacking emphasis, with the seven forwards making up the largest section of the selection. By contrast, only four midfielders have been included, while the defensive group contains seven players in addition to the three goalkeepers.
For Ghana, the tournament represents another opportunity to build on their status as one of Africa’s most regular participants in the competition. Yet the previous inability to move beyond the first round remains the central challenge facing Charles and his players.
The Black Princesses will now turn their attention to their Group C campaign, with France, South Korea and Ecuador standing between them and a place in the next phase. Their progress will determine whether this Ghana side can finally deliver the breakthrough that has eluded the team throughout its eight appearances at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup.