Ghana Triumphs Over Nigeria Via Shootout To Win Inaugural WAFU-B U-17 Girls’ Cup.
Hosts Ghana clinched the maiden WAFU-B U-17 Girls’ Cup title on Sunday, edging Nigeria 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout after an entertaining 2-2 draw at the Ghanaian Centre of Excellence in Prampram, near Accra.
The match proved a thrilling contrast to the goalless African Nations Championship qualifier played by both nations’ senior home-based teams in Accra earlier in the day. The young talents lit up the tournament’s finale with determination and skill, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Ghana started strongly, with Getrude Amoafo opening the scoring in the 14th minute. The hosts doubled their lead just five minutes later through Priscilla Mensah, whose impressive strike seemed to set the stage for a comfortable victory.
However, Nigeria’s Flamingos were far from defeated. Precious Oscar halved the deficit in the 34th minute with a stunning volley inside the Ghanaian penalty area. Harmony Chidi then brought the game level in the 78th minute with a remarkable long-range effort that soared past goalkeeper Aishatu Fatai.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Ghana maintained their composure, converting all five spot-kicks. Nigeria’s hopes were dashed when defender Taiwo Adegoke struck the woodwork, handing the victory to the home side.
Despite the loss, the Flamingos delivered an impressive tournament performance, scoring 16 goals in four matches and conceding only four.
In the third-place play-off earlier in the day, Benin Republic claimed the bronze medal, defeating Côte d’Ivoire in another penalty shootout.
The inaugural WAFU-B U-17 Girls’ Cup showcased the immense talent within the region, promising a bright future for women’s football in Africa.
