Ghana Football Association president Kurt Okraku believes the Black Princesses’ commanding victory over South Korea has given the side the confidence needed ahead of their decisive FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup clash with France.
Ghana revived their hopes of reaching the knockout stage with an impressive 3-1 victory in Sosnowiec on Wednesday, responding in style after opening their Group C campaign with a 3-0 defeat to Ecuador.
The Black Princesses dominated much of the contest and finally broke the deadlock eight minutes into the second half when Sarah Nyarko finished calmly after a slick move involving captain Priscilla Mensah and Agnes Owusu.
Two minutes later, Ivy Owusu Ansah doubled Ghana’s lead with a stunning long-range strike that flew into the top-right corner beyond goalkeeper Kim Chaebeen.
Ruth Amponsah added a third in the 84th minute before South Korea grabbed a late consolation, but the result ended Ghana’s seven-match winless run at the tournament and lifted them into second place in the group.
Okraku said the manner of the victory had strengthened belief within the squad before their final group-stage test.
“I’m not surprised they won, and they won convincingly,” he said.
“I believe this will give them the needed energy, the needed confidence going into the third group game, and we are all looking forward to another good performance.”
The GFA president also revealed there is a positive atmosphere in the camp, with the players encouraged by their response after the opening defeat.
“To be honest, the girls are happy. Everything is on course. They are extremely motivated,” Okraku added.
“For me, what I call natural motivation is very evident in whatever they are doing, and it is something that excites me.”
The victory has left Ghana in a strong position heading into their final Group C fixture, with the Black Princesses knowing that avoiding defeat against France will secure their place in the knockout rounds.
