U-17 Women's World Cup: Joe Nana Adarkwa credits belief for Black Maidens’ recovery after a tough start

Ghana coach Joe Nana Adarkwa says belief and encouragement helped the Black Maidens bounce back from their opening defeat to Norway at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Ghana lost 3-0 to Norway in their opening Group C match, with Adarkwa admitting his young players struggled to adapt to the demands of the tournament.

“Our game against Norway was a bit different because the platform was very new to the girls,” he told FIFA Media.

“They are newcomers; they are young, they didn't know what to do. So, after the first match, we sat down with them, we talked to them, we encouraged them, and we got back.”

The Black Maidens showed a marked improvement in their next game, fighting back from an early deficit to draw 3-3 with Brazil in an entertaining encounter.

Ghana conceded in the seventh minute for the second consecutive match but responded strongly to take the lead before Brazil fought back to earn a point.

Adarkwa said the players’ resilience reflected the work he had done with the team over the previous two years.

“In a game situation like this, the opposition can score in a split-second, but you have to recover,” he added.

“We spoke all the time with the players concerning the game and told them that's how football is. I've known them for the past two years, so I know what they can do at any given time.”

Ghana completed their group-stage campaign with a 2-0 victory over Canada to finish top of Group C and secure qualification for the Round of 16.

The Black Maidens will face Argentina on Wednesday, 28 October, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.

Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 GMT as Adarkwa’s side seek to maintain their improved form and continue their progress in the tournament.