The Black Princesses are facing another group phase exit at the 2024 U20 Women’s World Cup after succumbing to a 4-1 defeat to Japan on Thursday in their second game of the competition.
Ghana were coming from a disappointing 2-1 defeat to debutants Austria and were poised to upset Japan in the Group E clash.
Despite their spirited efforts particularly in the first half, it was Japan who took the lead on the eve of half-time thanks to Chinari Sasai before Manaka Matsukubo increased the tally of the 2018 champions before the break.
After recess, Japan were more confident this time and showed more determination which eventually resulted in the third goal in the 50th minute.
Ghana’s efforts finally yielded some positives as captain Stella Nyamekye pulled one back in the 83rd minute through a penalty.
The Asians however, thought that was not enough as Miyu Matsunaga sealed their 4-1 win to secure qualification to the next stage.
Meanwhile, with two straight losses, the Black Princesses can only hope for some magic to sail through for the first time having failed to proceed to the next stage after six consecutive attempts.
In the other Group E fixture, Austria secured a second straight win over New Zealand to also book a place in the next stage leaving Ghana and New Zealand to battle for a third-place finish and possibly seek qualification. The two sides will lock horns on Monday, September 9, 2024.
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