Ghana’s Black Princesses have emerged victorious in a pulsating two-leg encounter against South Africa, claiming a hard-fought 3-2 aggregate win thanks to a decisive 1-0 victory at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit. Super substitute Priscilla Mensah was the hero of the day, netting the game’s only goal in the 63rd minute to seal the triumph.
The tension was palpable even before kickoff, following a thrilling 2-2 draw in the first leg hosted by Ghana. Both teams knew that the stakes were incredibly high, with everything to play for in this winner-takes-all clash.
From the whistle, both sides battled fiercely, showcasing skill and determination. The defenses held firm for much of the game, creating a cagey affair where chances were at a premium. As the second half wore on, the deadlock remained unbroken, and the pressure mounted with each passing minute.
However, the tide turned dramatically in the 63rd minute. Introduced into the fray to inject fresh energy, Priscilla Mensah proved to be an inspired substitution. Seizing a crucial opportunity, Mensah found the back of the net, sending a wave of jubilation through the Ghanaian camp and silencing the home crowd. Her clinical finish not only broke the stalemate but also gave the Black Princesses the crucial advantage they needed on aggregate.
South Africa pressed hard for an equalizer in the remaining minutes, throwing everything they had forward in a desperate attempt to salvage the tie. But Ghana’s defense stood resolute, battling tooth and nail, embodying the spirit of “fighting right till the very end” as they repelled every attack. The final whistle blew, confirming a 1-0 victory for Ghana on the day, and a glorious 3-2 aggregate triumph.
This remarkable achievement underscores the resilience and talent within the Black Princesses squad. Their ability to secure a vital away win after a challenging first leg speaks volumes about their character and tactical discipline. The celebrations that followed were well-deserved, marking a memorable chapter for Ghanaian women’s football.
By: Andrews Addotey<span
