We want to kill the game in Accra – Black Maidens Coach Adarkwah targets 1st-leg win vs Liberia

Black Maidens Coach Joe Nana Adarkwah says his side are targeting a decisive first-leg victory when they host Liberia in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier on Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

With the return leg set for Monrovia next week, Adarkwah insists Ghana must settle the tie at home to avoid pressure away.

“So far so good. Our preparation has been going on very, very well,” Adarkwah said. “We are ready for the game.”

He was clear about the approach for the home fixture, describing the away leg as “ecologically very difficult.”

“Playing home before going into away, you have to win and win hands down,” he stated. “We want to kill the game here before going into the next game. That way, when you get there, the players will be okay. We don’t want to put pressure on ourselves.”

The coach confirmed that some key players are currently unavailable due to Middle League commitments but backed the depth in his squad.

“With the quality that we have, although they are not here, we can play without them. But when they are back, we are okay.”

Adarkwah says his team is aware of expectations and has one clear objective.

“We want to kill the game here so that our return match will be a mere formality. That’s all.”

Ghana advanced to this round after beating Togo in the previous stage. A win in Accra will put the Black Maidens in control ahead of next week’s second leg in Liberia.

The match is scheduled for 3:30pm Kick-off at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

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