Black Maidens Fight Back to Earn Draw in Senegal Qualifier

Ghana's Black Maidens secured a crucial away draw against Senegal in the first leg of their 2026 U-17 Women's World Cup qualifier, bouncing back from a first-half deficit to level the match late on.

Senegal dominated the opening period, taking the lead from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Ghana goalkeeper Belinda Maku was adjudged to have fouled their attacker. The home side went into the break with a 1-0 advantage.

Coach Nana Joe Adarkwa's side, who had impressed in their previous round by defeating Liberia 8-0 on aggregate, pressed for an equaliser in the second half but lacked efficiency in front of goal. Their persistence paid off in the 76th minute when substitute Benedicta Nketiah Danso came off the bench and restored parity within nine minutes of entering the pitch.

The match ended 1-1, leaving everything to play for in the reverse fixture next week in Accra. Ghana will host Senegal at home seeking to progress to the World Cup qualifying stages.