The Black Princesses of Ghana are preparing with renewed determination to break their long-standing jinx of not advancing past the group stage in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Head coach Yussif Basigi shared the team’s resolute mindset during a recent media briefing at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium on July 22, 2024. Basigi emphasized the team’s commitment to overcoming past challenges and achieving their goal this time around. Reflecting on their 2018 World Cup experience, Basigi noted that the administrative normalization process had impacted their performance.

“In my case, I will say it was unfortunate that we went for the World Cup in 2018. That was the time of the expose normalization, so things were not normalized as we went there,” he said. “I wouldn’t say that is an excuse, though. This time around, we are motivated to go again and make a mark because we are all looking forward to breaking that jinx. So we have made the girls aware just as we, the technical staff, are also aware,” he added.

Ghana will face tough competition in Group E, where they are drawn against former World Champions Japan, Austria, and New Zealand. The Black Princesses are determined to make history and advance beyond the group stage for the first time in their seventh consecutive appearance at this level.

The 11th edition of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup is set to take place in Colombia from August 31 to September 22, 2024. Fans and supporters are eagerly watching as the team prepares to showcase their skills and determination on the global stage.