Despite the victory, Ghana’s journey ended in disappointment as they were eliminated from the tournament for the seventh consecutive time at the group stage.
Salamatu Abdulai opened the scoring in the 59th minute after a slow first half, giving Ghana hope of a positive end to their campaign. New Zealand equalised through Manaia Elliot, but Abdulai restored Ghana’s lead in the 72nd minute. Tracy Twum then sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal, ensuring the Princesses secured their first and only victory in Colombia.
However, the win was not enough to secure progression to the knockout stages. Argentina’s earlier victory over Costa Rica claimed the final third-place slot, sealing Ghana’s fate.
Ghana’s tournament began with a 2-1 loss to debutants Austria, followed by a heavy 4-1 defeat to 2018 champions Japan. The Black Princesses were hoping to break their group stage jinx, but once again fell short of expectations.
The result raises concerns about the team’s consistent early exits, despite high hopes after winning the gold medal in women’s football at the 2023 African Games.
Meanwhile, fellow African teams Nigeria and Cameroon progressed to the next round. Nigeria finished second in their group, while Cameroon advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.
Ghana will now have to regroup and strategise as they look forward to future tournaments, still chasing their first-ever knockout stage appearance in the U20 Women’s World Cup.
