U-20 WWC: Black Princesses targeting historic group-stage qualification – Sampson

The Black Princesses' head coach, Charles Sampson, has set the team's primary goal at the upcoming 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup to shatter their persistent group-stage wall and achieve their first-ever qualification for the knockout round. Following a training camp at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, Sampson is optimistic about his squad's readiness after assessing their progress. He highlighted the competitive nature of training, praising the team's responsiveness to preparation.

However, injuries have influenced their preparations, sidelining several players, including goalkeepers. To acclimatize and gauge themselves against global competition, the Black Princesses are set to participate in friendly matches in Poland prior to the tournament. Charles Sampson expressed his appreciation to the Ghana Football Association for organizing these friendly games, acknowledging their significance in the team's preparations.

Despite Ghana's historical failure to advance beyond the group stage of the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, Sampson remains resolute in altering this record. He reassured Ghanaians that the team is committed to giving their best and progressing through the group stage, emphasizing the importance of game-to-game improvement. The Black Princesses will commence their Group B fixtures with a match against Ecuador on September 6, followed by encounters with Korea Republic and France. The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup will take place in Poland from September 5 to 27.