U-17 Women's World Cup: Black Maidens exit tournament after 1-0 loss to Japan

Ghana's hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup have ended following a 1-0 defeat by Japan in the quarter-finals.

The Black Maidens suffered the narrow loss at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat on Sunday, with Nanami Kurita scoring the decisive goal in the 54th minute.

Head coach Adarkwa made two changes to his starting line-up, handing starts to Belinda Kpentey and Mavis Koah.

However, Ghana struggled to find their rhythm in the opening half, managing just one attempt on goal as Japan dominated proceedings.

Despite their superiority, the Asian side were unable to break the deadlock before the interval.

Japan eventually took the lead nine minutes into the second half when Kurita found the back of the net to put her side in control of the contest.

The Black Maidens attempted to fight their way back into the game but could not find an equaliser, as Japan held on to secure a place in the last four.

The defeat brings Ghana's campaign to an end at the quarter-final stage, while Japan advance to the semi-finals, where they will face fellow Asian side South Korea.