LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The Black Princesses of Ghana endured a difficult evening in Sosnowiec, as they were eliminated from the FIFA U20 women’s World Cup tournament following a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of France.
Clara Bertrand opened scoring with a composed second‑half finish, handing France momentum after a cagey opening forty‑five minutes.
Justine Rouquet doubled the advantage with a sharp strike, punishing Ghana’s defensive hesitation as France increased attacking pressure.
Rouquet added her second minutes later, completing a confident brace that reflected France’s growing superiority across midfield and attack.
Ornella Graziani converted a late penalty, sealing France’s commanding victory and leaving Ghana unable to recover momentum.
The defeat leaves Ghana at the bottom of Group C with one win and two losses.
It also meant that Ghana have now been knocked out from the group stage in every U20 Women’s World Cup since 2010.
Elsewhere, Korea Republic edged Ecuador three‑two, with Lee Haeun, Park Juha and Kim Minseo delivering decisive contributions.
Ecuador responded through Dariana Moran and Evelyn Burgos, but Fiorella Pico’s late red card halted their comeback effort.
Italy and Japan battled to a tense one‑one draw, with Paola Fadda scoring from the spot before Tago equalised.
The result ensured Italy’s progression to the next round, leaving Japan waiting on other group outcomes.
READ ALSO: 2026 IWBF: Australia Coach Credits Defensive Pressure For Comeback Win Against Turkiye – VONa Communications
In Group D, the United States produced a sensational nine‑nil victory over New Zealand, led by Kennedy Fuller’s hat‑trick.
Fuller struck twice from open play and once from the spot, powering USA to a statement group‑stage win.
Alex Buck added a brace, while Johnson, Adames and Strawn contributed to the Americans’ free‑scoring performance.
The USA youngsters will now take on Brazil in the round of 16.
