FIFA U-17 World Cup qualifiers: Advantage Black Maidens!

Ghana’s Ghana U-17 women's national team, Black Maidens, put one foot in the next round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers with a composed and clinical 2–0 victory over Togo in the first leg in Lomé yesterday.

In a performance defined by control, discipline and attacking precision, the Maidens rose to the challenge at the Stade de Kégué, with Priscilla Mensah emerging as the match-winner with a well-taken brace.

Ghana struck early to seize control of the tie. In the 16th minute, Mensah capped a slick, well-worked move with a composed finish to silence the home crowd and give the visitors a vital breakthrough.

From that point, the Maidens dictated proceedings, enjoying the lion’s share of possession and keeping Togo pinned back, while their defensive organisation ensured the hosts were restricted to minimal scoring opportunities.

After the break, Ghana maintained their grip on the contest, pressing with purpose and refusing to retreat into their shell.

Their persistence paid off in the 64th minute when Mensah struck again—this time showing sharp instinct inside the box—to double the advantage and effectively put the tie in Ghana’s control.

The two-goal cushion now hands the Black Maidens a significant edge heading into the return leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on April 18.