Black Princesses World Cup qualification an incredible achievement - Charles Sampson

Black Princesses head coach Charles Sampson has praised his side’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, describing it as an “incredible achievement” after a hard-fought playoff success against Uganda.

Ghana booked one of Africa’s four available places at the tournament following a 1-1 draw in the second leg in Kampala over the weekend.

Forward Linda Owusu Ansah struck in the 78th minute to secure a crucial away result, sealing a 3-2 aggregate victory.

The qualification was effectively built in the first leg, where Ghana recorded a 2-1 win at the Accra Sports Stadium before holding firm in Uganda to complete the job.

Speaking after the team’s arrival in Accra on Monday, Sampson expressed pride in his players’ resilience and belief throughout the campaign.

"[The feeling is] indescribable and overwhelming. You can see how happy the girls are. We are so proud of them. This is what we were out for, and we got what we wanted, so we are very excited.

He added that attention has now shifted from qualification to preparation for the global stage, with expectations from the Football Association already clear.

"We have two obligations from the FA; the first was to qualify, and the next one is to do well at the World Cup. So now, our intention has turned to how to prepare the team and do well at the World Cup.

The coach also credited the unity and tactical discipline within his squad, insisting he never doubted their ability to deliver.

"I was always confident, and I trusted the girls. They believed in the concept that we had from the beginning, so I knew we would go far with it."

Looking ahead, Ghana will now turn its focus to the 2026 World Cup in Poland, where Sampson’s side will aim to make history by becoming the first Ghanaian team to progress beyond the group stage at this level.