Ghana’s Black Maidens began their 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 3–0 defeat to Norway in their opening Group C match in Morocco on Sunday.
Head coach Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side were left chasing the game after Norway scored twice inside the opening 13 minutes, putting Ghana under immediate pressure at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.
The early goals handed Norway control of the contest and left the Black Maidens with a difficult task as they sought to recover from the setback.
Ghana attempted to respond after the break, working to find a way through Norway’s organised defence and reduce the deficit. However, they were unable to convert their efforts into goals.
Norway added a third in the 80th minute to complete the 3–0 victory and begin their Group C campaign with three points.
⏰: Full Time…!!!!
🇳🇴 3:0 🇬🇭
#ShineBlackMaidens✨
#U17WWC https://t.co/2mBpxO4z7c— Ghana Women National Teams 🇬🇭 (@GhanaWNT) October 18, 2026
The defeat leaves Ghana needing to recover quickly in a competitive group that also includes Brazil and Canada. The Black Maidens had returned to the tournament after missing the previous edition, hoping to build on a record that includes a bronze medal in 2012 and three quarter-final appearances.
Adarkwa’s team will now turn their attention to Brazil, their next opponents in the group stage happening on Wednesday, October 21, at 18:00 GMT at the Women’s Football Complex in Rabat.
Ghana will need a stronger start and greater attacking efficiency if they are to collect points and keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Their final group fixture is against Canada on Saturday, October 24, at 15:00 GMT.
