Prampram, Ghana – With just a day to go until the WAFU Zone B U-17 Girls Cup kicks off, Black Maidens head coach Joe Nana Adarkwa has expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s ability to excel in the tournament. The Ghanaian U-17 girls’ side will face Benin in their opening match on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.

After nearly two months of rigorous preparation in Bibiani and Prampram, the Black Maidens are poised to put on a stellar performance. Reflecting on their preparations, Coach Adarkwa shared, “We have been in camp for about six weeks now, and so far, everything has gone well. We are ready for the tournament.”

Despite facing relatively unfamiliar opponents, the coach is confident in his team’s adaptability. “As of now, we don’t know much about our opponents. But as the competition progresses, we will assess and adjust. The technical team has worked hard, and we are prepared to take all points in every match,” he said.

Addressing the unique challenge of hosting, Coach Adarkwa acknowledged the pressure but remained optimistic. “Being the host nation comes with expectations. People want us to win, and that’s natural. But the focus is on my girls being ready to play, and they are.”

The Black Maidens’ opening fixture against Benin is scheduled to begin at 15:00 GMT, marking the start of what promises to be an exciting tournament.