Black Maidens forward Jessica Appiah has been named Player of the Match after helping Ghana beat Argentina on penalties in a thrilling Round of 16 clash at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The exciting attacker delivered a stupendous performance on Wednesday, scoring Ghana’s opening goal before keeping her nerve to convert the winning penalty as the Black Maidens booked their place in the quarter-finals.
Appiah started on the right side of Ghana's attack and made an immediate impact as she went ahead to break the deadlock in the 16th minute after connecting with a pass from Cynthia Obinsrewuo.
Her early strike gave Ghana the lead and put the West African side in a strong position to push for a place in the last eight.
However, the match took a difficult turn for the Black Maidens when Hajara Adam received her second yellow card and was sent off in the 77th minute, leaving Ghana to battle with 10 players.
Argentina took advantage of their numerical superiority and fought their way back into the game, with Mercedes Diz scoring an 86th-minute equaliser to force the match into a penalty shootout.
Despite the setback, Ghana stayed calm and showed great courage during the penalty shootout, winning 5-4 to knock Argentina out and book their place in the quarter-finals.
Appiah ended her brilliant performance by scoring the winning penalty to complete Ghana’s victory that earned her the Player of the Match award.
The Ghana Women’s National Teams confirmed the recognition on social media, celebrating Appiah’s goal and her second MVP award of the tournament.
Jessica Appiah with the goal, and her second MVP of the tournament 🎯🏅 #ShineBlackMaidens✨ #U17WWC https://t.co/RxEjpet46w
— Ghana Women National Teams 🇬🇭 (@GhanaWNT) October 28, 2026
With the Black Maidens now through to the last eight, Appiah’s attacking threat could prove important as Ghana prepare for their next challenge.
Ghana are expected to face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Japan and Kenya in the quarter-finals as they continue their push for glory at the global youth tournament.
By: Pascal Amoah
