Ghana’s Black Maidens suffered a 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening Group C match at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup at the Mohammed VI Football Complex on Sunday.
Norway took the lead in spectacular fashion when Isabella Lepore unleashed a powerful strike from about 30 yards, sending the ball off the underside of the crossbar and into the net.
The Europeans doubled their advantage with another impressive finish. Hanne Nesse collected the ball on the edge of the penalty area before setting up Maia Melgard, who shifted onto her left foot and curled a superb effort into the net.
Coach Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side responded with greater urgency after the break and came close to reducing the deficit when substitute Cynthia Obinsrewuo was sent through on goal. However, Norwegian goalkeeper Erla Braathen produced a crucial save to deny her.
Norway sealed the victory midway through the second half when Melgard exchanged passes from a corner, cut inside and fired another stunning effort beyond the reach of Ghana goalkeeper Belinda Manu Aklie.
The defeat leaves Ghana with little room for error in Group C, with challenging fixtures against Brazil and Canada still ahead.
The Black Maidens will now turn their attention to their next group match as they seek to bounce back and keep their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage alive.
