Ghana’s U-17 women kept their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying hopes alive after fighting back to secure a 1-1 draw against Senegal in Dakar.
The result leaves the final-round tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Accra, where the Black Maidens will now have home advantage and a clear chance to finish the job.
Senegal Strike First In Dakar
Senegal made the stronger start at home and took the lead in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot.
That goal forced Ghana to chase the game for long spells and turned the first leg into a test of patience, discipline and recovery.
The Black Maidens had arrived in Dakar for a crucial final qualifying-round first leg, with Ghana FA confirming the team travelled with a 24-player squad and technical staff for the World Cup qualifier.
Black Maidens Respond After The Break
Ghana’s response came after changes at the start of the second half.
Rafia and Linda were introduced in place of Cynthia and Maybel, giving the visitors fresh energy as they grew into the contest.
The Black Maidens began to create more danger on the counterattack and kept pushing for a way back into the match.
Their pressure eventually paid off five minutes from time when Benedicta finished a swift counterattacking move to make it 1-1.
Tie Remains Open Before Accra Return
The late equaliser gives Ghana a valuable away result, but the job is not complete.
This is the final round of the African qualifiers, with Ghana and Senegal fighting for a place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. GhanaSoccerNet earlier reported that the second leg is scheduled for the July 10–12 window, with the winner of the two-legged tie securing one of Africa’s qualification slots.
For Ghana, the draw matters. A defeat would have left the Black Maidens under heavy pressure heading home. Instead, they return to Accra level, alive and with momentum from a late comeback.
Ghana Must Finish The Job
The Black Maidens have already shown strength in the qualifying campaign, having reached the final round after an 8-0 aggregate win over Liberia.
Now, the challenge is sharper.
Ghana have put themselves in position. Accra must now decide whether the comeback in Dakar becomes a turning point or just a missed opportunity to take control of the tie.