The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Ghana’s Black Maidens take on Nigeria’s Flamingos in the finals of the 2024 WAFU Zone B U17 Girls Cup.
Nigeria secured their place in the final with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Benin in the semi-finals. The Flamingos have been dominant throughout the tournament, boasting 14 goals scored and conceding only two. Mary Lucky Mkp and Peace Effiong were the goal scorers who sealed their progression.
On the other side, Ghana’s Black Maidens delivered a commanding performance in their semi-final clash, defeating Ivory Coast 5-0. Christana Ashiaku stole the show with a first-half hat trick, while Zipporah Ayantoya and Seidatu Wahab added to the tally in the second half. At the heart of Ghana’s defense, Latifa Musah has been a standout performer, anchoring a resolute backline.
The final, scheduled for Sunday, December 22, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, promises to be an electrifying contest. Both teams will be eager to claim the title of WAFU Zone B U17 Girls Cup champions.
The tournament carries significant implications for both nations. For Ghana, it marks a chance to re-establish their presence on the international stage following a two-year suspension due to age-cheating violations. Meanwhile, Nigeria views the competition as essential preparation for their upcoming U17 World Cup qualifiers, using the event to fine-tune their squad and tactics ahead of the global stage.