U-17 Women’s World Cup: Praise and incentives boost Black Maidens’ confidence

Ghana coach Joe Nana Adarkwa says praise and incentives have helped lift the confidence of the Black Maidens ahead of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Round of 16 clash against Argentina.

Adarkwa believes the players have regained their belief after recovering from a disappointing start to the tournament in Morocco.

Ghana suffered a 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening Group C match but responded with a 3-3 draw against Brazil before beating Canada 2-0 to secure a place in the knockout stage.

The coach said the players were convinced they could avoid an early exit and progress to the last 16.

“When we were in camp, you could see from their faces that we didn't have to go home and that we'd win the game and stay. And lo and behold, it happened,” Adarkwa said.

He explained that his technical team prioritised encouragement before addressing the players’ mistakes, while also providing incentives to raise their morale.

“We praised them because, for our girls, you have to praise them all the time before you let them know their mistakes,” he added.

“We gave them some incentives to boost their morale, and now you can see that everything is on top; their spirit is on top. We'll wait and see what happens in Wednesday's game.”

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

Ghana will hope to maintain the momentum gained from their improved group-stage performances as they seek to advance further in the competition.