Poland 2026: Ghana Stun Korea, Kick -Start Africa’s Campaign as Italy Book Round of 16 Spot
Ghana revived their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign in Poland with a convincing 3-1 victory over Korea Republic on Wednesday, September 9, while Italy became the first team from Group D to secure a place in the Round of 16.
The Black Princesses, who suffered defeat against Ecuador in their opening Group C fixture, responded strongly against Korea Republic to record their first points of the tournament.
Ghana’s victory keeps their knockout-stage hopes alive, with the West Africans now level on three points with Ecuador ahead of the final group matches.
France also strengthened their position at the top of Group C after completing a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Ecuador.
Ecuador raced into a 2-1 lead before France turned the game around in the second half, with Aude Bizet and Landryna Lushimba Bilombi finding the decisive goals to secure all three points.
France now lead Group C with four points, while Ecuador and Ghana have three points each.
In Group D, Italy produced a 3-0 victory over New Zealand to make it two wins from two matches and confirm their place in the Round of 16.
The Italians moved to six points, while Japan occupy second place on four points after a thrilling 2-2 draw with the United States.
The USA, who lost their opening match to Italy, claimed their first point of the competition but remain under pressure heading into their final group fixture.
Attention now turns to Nigeria’s Falconets, who face China PR on Thursday, September 10, in a crucial Group F encounter.
Nigeria will be looking to respond after losing their opening fixture to Spain, while China enter the contest with confidence following their 5-0 victory over New Caledonia.
With the group stages reaching a decisive phase, the Falconets know that a positive result against China could revive their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.
