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Ghana once again etched her name in the annals of African youth football as the national U-15 girls’ team clinched the title at this year’s CAF Africa Schools Football Championship.
Hosting the competition for the first time in the sub-region, Ghana entered the finals as favourites after an impressive campaign, while the boys’ team had narrowly missed out on reaching the final following a 1-0 semi-final loss to Tanzania.
In a final graced by President John Dramani Mahama; CAF President Patrice Motsepe, and other high-profile dignitaries at the University of Ghana Stadium, the Black Damsels wasted no time asserting their dominance against Uganda.
The breakthrough came early when Christiana Ashiaku’s brilliant solo run set up Belinda Kpentey to slot home the opener, sending the electrified home crowd into raptures.
Ghana doubled their lead through Daniella Abass, who calmly finished to secure a commanding 2-0 advantage.
Despite Uganda’s efforts to mount a comeback, the Ghanaian defence remained solid to see out the victory and lift the coveted trophy.
As champions, Ghana’s U-15 girls will receive a $300,000 cash prize while Uganda, the runners-up, will be awarded $200,000.
The third-place teams in both the boys’ and girls’ categories will each take home $150,000.
The tournament also saw Ghana’s U-15 boys claim the bronze medal after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Uganda.
Meanwhile, Tanzania’s U-15 boys successfully defended their title, overcoming Senegal in a dramatic penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
In the girls’ division, former champions South Africa settled for bronze after edging Morocco 2-1 in the third-place playoff.
The four-day tournament showcased exciting youth talent across Africa and capped a memorable hosting for Ghana with double podium finishes.
source: graphic.com.gh
