U-17 Women's World Cup: It will be a tough game against Argentina, says Black Maidens coach Joe Nana Adarkwa

Ghana coach Joe Nana Adarkwa expects a difficult challenge when the Black Maidens face Argentina in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup on Wednesday.

The two sides will meet at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat, Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 GMT as Ghana seek to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

The Black Maidens have recovered impressively from a difficult start to their campaign, having lost 3-0 to Norway in their opening Group C match.

They responded by holding Brazil to a thrilling 3-3 draw before defeating Canada 2-0 in their final group fixture to finish top of the standings and advance to the knockout stage.

Despite the improvement in performances, Nana Adarkwa is aware that the challenges are likely to increase as the competition progresses.

“Going forward, I know we are heading into difficult times,” he told Ghana Football Association Media.

“We are going to face tougher opposition, and we are going to work towards that,” he added.

Argentina, meanwhile, enter the contest with confidence after an impressive group-stage campaign that included a commanding 5-1 victory over hosts Morocco and a 2-0 win against New Zealand.

The South American side topped their group to secure qualification for the knockout stages and will be aiming to continue their promising run against Ghana.

Wednesday’s encounter will also present an opportunity for Argentina to make further history, as this tournament marks their first appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Ghana, by contrast, have considerable experience at this level, having previously enjoyed success in the competition, including winning the bronze medal in 2012.

The Black Maidens will now hope to draw on that experience as they seek to overcome Argentina and keep their hopes of a deep run in Morocco alive.