Black Princesses are fully prepared for their opening match of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup against Ecuador, according to head coach Charles Sampson.
Ghana’s U-20 female national team begin their campaign on Sunday, September 6, with Sampson expressing confidence that his players are focused and eager to get their tournament underway.
“Finally, the day is getting closer, or it has already come. We’re facing Ecuador tomorrow,” he said. “We’ve been waiting for this for I can’t remember how long, so we just can’t wait to be on the field tomorrow.”
Sampson revealed that the team’s final training session was designed to fine-tune key areas while ensuring the players remained fresh ahead of the crucial encounter.
“Today was just to touch on a few aspects of the game and do a little bit of set pieces and get the body ready and fresh for tomorrow,” he explained. “The intensity was not much, and we are very satisfied. The girls are ready.”
The coach also highlighted the determination within the squad, noting that recent visits from government officials and other dignitaries had further boosted morale in camp.
“You could see that they are very, very focused. The presence of dignitaries here has also raised their morale, so we are looking forward to tomorrow,” he said.
For Sampson, leading Ghana at the World Cup represents the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.
“It has been a dream. It has been a privilege, and the journey has been amazing, so we are looking forward to showcasing what we have to the world tomorrow,” he added.
Despite the significance of the occasion, the coach insists his side will approach the match with only one objective.
“We are going in with the intention of winning. That’s the first game we have in the group, and we know that it is very vital,” he said. “Tomorrow our aim is to go and win, and that is what we are focusing on right now.”
Sampson also called on Ghanaians to continue backing the team throughout the tournament.
“They should continue believing in us and supporting us and know that we will do our best. Tomorrow we will bring out the best of ourselves and make sure that we get what we are looking for.”
After facing Ecuador, Ghana will take on the Republic of Korea and France in their remaining Group fixtures.
The Black Princesses are hoping to reach the knockout stage of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup for the first time in their eighth appearance at the tournament.
