By Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s U-16 female side, the Black Damsels, made an emphatic statement in their opening game of the UEFA Development tournament, thrashing Malta’s U-16 side 8-1 at the Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali-Attard. The one-sided encounter saw Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side dominate from start to finish, with Seidatu Wahab opening the scoring in the 15th minute with a brilliant shot into the right side of the post.
Malta briefly leveled the score in the 31st minute, converting a penalty, but Ghana quickly restored their lead through Priscilla Mensah’s goal just two minutes later. The Black Damsels went into the halftime break with a 2-1 advantage, but it was in the second half that they truly turned on the style. Christiana Ashiaku scored twice in the 47th and 52nd minutes, extending Ghana’s lead to 4-1, and from there, the floodgates opened.
Daniella Abass scored twice in the 65th and 73rd minutes, while Gloria Adomako Ameaa added another goal in the 82nd minute, making it 7-1. Wahab capped off the scoring with her second goal in the 89th minute, sealing an emphatic 8-1 victory for the Black Damsels. The win sets Ghana up nicely for their next game against Ireland on Thursday, March 6.
The Black Damsels’ impressive performance will undoubtedly boost their confidence ahead of their remaining games in the tournament. With their attacking prowess and solid defensive display, Ghana will be a force to be reckoned with in the competition. Coach Joe Nana Adarkwa will be pleased with his team’s display and will look to build on this momentum as they take on Ireland in their next game.
The UEFA Development tournament provides a valuable platform for Ghana’s young female players to gain international experience and develop their skills. With their convincing win over Malta, the Black Damsels have made a strong statement as the football community in Ghana will be eagerly anticipating their next game against Ireland.
