Black Damsels Retain African Crown in Dramatic Shootout Triumph



By Betty Enoch 
 
 

Ghana’s U-15 girls team, the Black Damsels, have once again stamped their authority on the continent after successfully defending their title at the CAF African Schools Football Championship with a nerve-racking victory over Burkina Faso.

In a tightly contested final played in Harare, both sides battled fiercely but failed to find the breakthrough in regulation time, showcasing discipline, resilience, and tactical maturity beyond their years. 

Despite several half-chances, neither team could tilt the balance, forcing the encounter into a dramatic penalty shootout.

What followed was a test of nerves and composure, as the Black Damsels edged their West African rivals 10-9 in a marathon shootout.

The young Ghanaians held their nerve under immense pressure, converting crucial kicks to seal a famous victory and retain their continental crown.

The triumph marks back-to-back titles for Ghana at the schools championship, underlining their growing dominance in youth football across Africa. 

Their consistency and winning mentality have set them apart as a rising powerhouse at this level.

Leading the charge was standout forward Christiana Ashiaku, who was named Player of the Tournament after an impressive campaign. 

She scored twice in five matches and delivered key performances at decisive moments, playing a pivotal role in her team’s success.

Beyond the glory, the victory also comes with a significant $300,000 cash prize, providing a major boost for youth football development in Ghana and further rewarding the team’s excellence on the continental stage.

For the Black Damsels, this latest triumph is more than just a trophy, it is a statement of intent and a glimpse into a bright future for Ghanaian women’s football.

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