Black Maidens handed Nigeria test in WAFU B U-17 Girls Championship draw

Ghana's Black Maidens have been drawn in a challenging Group B alongside Nigeria, Togo and Niger for the 2027 U-17 Girls Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tournament.

The competition, which also serves as the WAFU Zone B U-17 Girls Championship, will determine the teams that will represent the region at next year's continental finals.

The Black Maidens are expected to face stiff competition in their bid to secure qualification, with Nigeria widely regarded as the group's strongest side because of their rich history and success in women's youth football.

Togo and Niger will also be aiming to challenge for a place in the next stage as the four nations battle for progression from the group.

Hosts Côte d'Ivoire will stage the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on 15 September 2026.

Ghana will head into the competition with high expectations as they seek a return to the continental showpiece and another opportunity to compete among Africa's elite U-17 women's teams.

The Black Maidens will be targeting a strong start to their campaign as they look to navigate a difficult group and move closer to securing qualification for the 2027 U-17 Girls Africa Cup of Nations.