The Black Maidens of Ghana bowed out of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Japan in their quarter-final clash on Sunday. 

A second-half strike from Nanami Kurita in the 54th minute proved decisive as the two-time champions booked their place in the semi-finals. 

The Black Maidens made a bright start to the encounter and enjoyed good spells of possession in the opening stages, matching Japan’s technical play and controlling large portions of the midfield battle. 

However, Ghana struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities in the final third despite their dominance of the ball. 

Japan gradually grew into the game and found the breakthrough nine minutes after the restart when Kurita capitalised on an opening to fire home what turned out to be the winning goal. 

The Black Maidens responded positively and pushed forward in search of an equaliser, showing determination and resilience throughout the remainder of the contest. 

Despite their efforts, Coach Joe Nana Adarkwah’s side could not find a way past the disciplined Japanese defence. 

The defeat ends Ghana’s impressive campaign, which included a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Argentina in the Round of 16. 

Japan advance to the semi-finals and remain on course for a third FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title, while Ghana exit the tournament with their heads held high after another commendable showing on the global stage. 

Source: GNA