By Simon Asare
Accra, Feb. 15, GNA – Priscilla Mensah’s solitary strike proved crucial for Ghana’s Black Princesses as they edged South Africa to progress to the final round of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup African qualifiers.
The second leg encounter at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit was delicately poised following a 2–2 draw in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Needing a positive result away from home, the Black Princesses produced a disciplined and determined performance to edge their South African counterparts 3-2 on aggregate.
Striker Mary Amponsah was forced off with an injury early in the second half and was replaced by Priscilla Mensah, who went on to make the decisive impact.
In the 63rd minute, Jessica Appiah embarked on a brilliant solo run down the flank before finding Mensah in the box. The substitute calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner to hand Ghana a crucial lead.
South Africa responded with increased pressure and came close to equalising in the 78th minute, but Ghana goalkeeper Jenna produced a vital stop to preserve the advantage.
The Black Princesses held firm in the closing stages to secure the win and advance to the fourth and final round of the qualifiers as they chase an eighth consecutive appearance at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, scheduled for September in Poland.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade