2026 U-17 WWC: Black Maidens can still progress despite difficult start, says Henry Asante Twum

Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Henry Asante Twum believes the Black Maidens can still progress at the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup despite their disappointing start to the tournament.

Ghana suffered a 3-0 defeat to Norway in their Group C opener on Sunday, leaving coach Joe Nana Adarkwah and his players with work to do as they seek to keep their campaign alive.

However, Asante Twum insists the defeat should not mark the end of Ghana's hopes, with two group matches still to come.

“The Black Maidens did not start well against Norway, but all is not lost,” Asante Twum told Asempa FM.

The Ghanaian side will now turn their attention to Brazil, whom they face on Thursday, 22 October, at 18:00 GMT at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

The match presents the Black Maidens with an opportunity to bounce back from their opening defeat and strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.

With Canada also featuring in Group C, Ghana will need to produce improved performances in their remaining fixtures to keep their hopes of advancing alive.

The Black Maidens will conclude their group-stage campaign against Canada on Saturday, 24 October, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 GMT.

Ghana's next two matches will be crucial as they seek to recover from their defeat to Norway and remain in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.