Preparations for the first ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup gathers pace as Ghana’s Black Maidens brush up in Germany ahead of next month’s finals.

The Black Maidens are one of Africa’s two representatives, alongside Nigeria for the maiden event to be hosted by New Zealand later in October.

Ghana coach, Abraham Allotey would enjoy the better part of the two-week tour on getting his team ready for the tournament as the nation seeks to make a huge impact on the world stage.

Black Maidens captain, Mercy Myles remains hopeful of Ghana’s chances in New Zealand and expects the performance bar to be raised during the tour as competition for places becomes keener.

“I am very happy for what we have been able to do for Ghana. Playing at the World Cup has always been the team’s dream, which we have been able to achieve for now.

“New Zealand is a long road from here. I don’t know who would make the team as we all have to justify for places.

“Even if I don’t make it, I would still feel proud of captaining the team to qualify. However, I hope to be part of the team,” Myles told www.ghanafa.org after Ghana’s qualification.

“We have to go there (New Zealand) determined to win something. It’s always about achieving something. And we would try to do it,” the Black Maidens captain said.

Ghana would play in Group B at the World Cup where the Black Maidens join Germany, Korea DPR and Costa Rica.

The Black Maidens would open their Group B campaign against Korea DPR in Christchurch on October 29 before taking on Germany three days later with the final group match against Costa Rica.

The World Cup will be hosted by New Zealand from October 28 to November 16, 2008.