20-Player Squad Named for WAFU Zone B U-20 Girls’ Cup
The Black Princesses, Ghana’s national women’s under-20 football team, have announced a 20-player squad for the upcoming WAFU Zone B U-20 Girls’ Cup of Nations, set to take place in Benin from November 7 to 12, 2025. This tournament is a crucial step for young talent in West Africa, offering a platform to showcase skills and gain international experience.
Strong Domestic Foundation
The squad is built around a strong domestic foundation, with key players coming from top Ghanaian clubs. The Dreamz Ladies contribute three players—Sarah Nyarko, Ivy Owusu Osei, and Precious Asante—who are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s strategy. Their presence ensures a blend of youth and experience, which will be vital in navigating the challenges of the competition.
In addition to the Dreamz Ladies trio, the squad includes Mary Amponsah, a forward from the Black Queens. Her senior international experience brings a level of leadership that could prove invaluable to the younger players on the team. Amponsah’s inclusion highlights the importance of mentorship in developing the next generation of Ghanaian footballers.
Contributions from Other Clubs
Other clubs also contribute to the squad. Ampem Darkoa Ladies provide three players: Aishetu Awinimi, Diana Amoako, and Linda Owusu Ansah. These players bring a mix of technical skills and physical strength, adding depth to the team’s attacking and defensive options.
Jonina Ladies’ striker Agnes Yeboah has earned a spot in the squad after an impressive performance in the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League. She scored a brace on the opening day, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. Her inclusion is a testament to her potential and the impact she can have on the field.
Another notable addition is Rubby Osei, a midfielder from Hasaacas Ladies. Her presence in the squad adds balance and creativity to the midfield, which is often the engine room of any successful team.
Tournament Format and Context
The WAFU Zone B U-20 Girls’ Cup of Nations will be played in a round-robin format, featuring teams from Benin, Ghana, and Nigeria. It is worth noting that Niger has withdrawn from the tournament, reducing the number of participating teams. However, this does not diminish the significance of the event, as it remains a critical opportunity for the participating nations to compete at a high level.
Ghana enters the tournament as defending champions, having won the inaugural edition of the competition in 2023 when it was held in Kumasi. This achievement sets a high bar for the current squad, but it also serves as motivation to maintain their dominance in the region.
Key Players and Expectations
With a mix of experienced and emerging talents, the Black Princesses are well-positioned to make a strong showing in the tournament. The combination of domestic and international exposure among the players suggests that the team is well-prepared to face the challenges ahead.
As the competition approaches, fans and supporters will be eagerly watching to see how the squad performs. The success of the Black Princesses in this tournament could have long-term implications for the development of women’s football in Ghana and the wider West African region.