Black Princesses coach Yussif Basigi is full of confidence as the team prepares to begin their campaign in the U-20 Women’s World Cup, facing Austria in their opening match.
Ghana’s U-20 team kicks off their seventh appearance in the tournament later tonight against debutants Austria at Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota, Colombia.
The Princesses, who recently won gold in the women’s football category at the continental level, are now shifting their focus to the prestigious 11th edition of the U-20 Women’s World Cup, which runs from August 31 to September 22, 2024.
Basigi and his team are determined to start strong against the newcomers to set a positive tone for their quest to advance beyond the group stage.
Despite making their debut in the 2010 U-20 Women’s World Cup, the Black Princesses have yet to progress past the group stages in their previous six appearances. Ending this streak is a key goal for Basigi and his squad.
The former Hasaacas Ladies coach expressed that his motivation is at an all-time high and he is fully prepared to give his best performance on the global stage.
“There is no pressure on me. I’m highly motivated to participate in this World Cup, especially as it’s my second edition as a coach. I’m calm because not every coach gets this opportunity, so when you do, you need to make the most of it,” said Yussif Basigi.
Since their debut in the U-20 Women’s World Cup in 2010, the Black Princesses have played 18 matches in the competition, securing only four wins, with 11 losses and three draws.
They aim to achieve their fifth victory on the international stage tonight against Austria.
Basigi also called for the continued support of Ghanaians and praised the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the government for their significant backing.
“We need their prayers and support, as usual, and I’m confident Ghanaians will back us in every way. The government and the FA have supported us from day one of our camp until now. We’re grateful for their support and their representatives are here to address any challenges we may face.”
After being stuck in the group stages from 2010 to 2022, the Black Princesses are determined to break this pattern in the current tournament, starting with a win against Austria.
Ghana will also face 2018 champions Japan on Thursday in their second group-stage match and complete their group-stage campaign on Sunday against New Zealand.
