Black Maidens qualify for 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after dramatic penalty shootout win over Senegal
The Black Maidens of Ghana have secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after edging Senegal 7-6 in a tense penalty shootout at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, ending their absence from the last two editions of the tournament.
WE'RE GOING TO THE WORLD CUP! 🌍🇬🇭
— Ghana Women National Teams 🇬🇭 (@GhanaWNT) July 11, 2026
This is surreal, the Black Maidens hold their nerve to edge out Senegal in penalties.
Congratulations, Girls 🎊 #ShineBlackMaidens✨#FIFAU17WWCQ pic.twitter.com/yeV22QjGoq
The decisive second-leg encounter came after the two sides had played out a draw in the first meeting in Dakar, leaving everything to play for in Accra with a place at the global showpiece in Morocco at stake.
Senegal made a dream start to the contest, taking the lead just 10 minutes into the game to put the hosts under early pressure and briefly silence the home supporters.
Despite the setback, the Black Maidens responded positively and gradually took control of proceedings. Coach Joe Nana Adarkwa's side dominated possession and created several promising attacking opportunities as they searched for an equaliser before the interval.
Their efforts paid off in the 44th minute when captain Seidatu, who plays for Oaks FC, calmly found the back of the net following an impressive team move to restore parity. The equaliser lifted the atmosphere inside the stadium and ensured the teams went into halftime level.
The second half produced an entertaining and closely fought contest, with both teams pushing for the goal that would secure qualification. Ghana looked the more adventurous in attack, while Senegal remained a constant threat on the counter.
However, both defences stood firm and the goalkeepers produced assured performances to keep the score unchanged through the remainder of the match.
With the tie level after regulation time, the qualification rules meant the contest went straight to a penalty shootout.
The shootout delivered plenty of drama as both teams displayed remarkable composure from the spot. After a tense exchange of penalties, Ghana held their nerve to claim a 7-6 victory, sparking jubilant celebrations among the players, technical team and supporters.
The victory confirms Ghana's return to the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after missing the previous two editions. The tournament will be hosted by Morocco from October 17 to November 7, 2026, where the Black Maidens will once again compete on the world stage.