U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026: Sampson backs Ghana amid injuries

Ghana coach Charles Sampson believes the Black Princesses can overcome the loss of seven players and remain competitive at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. The injury crisis has affected several key positions, including the captaincy, goalkeeping and attack.

Captain Linda Owusu Ansah is among those ruled out after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury while representing the Black Queens at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Her absence leaves Ghana without one of the players expected to provide leadership during the tournament.

The Black Princesses will also be without all three goalkeepers named in the casualty list: Asana Osman, Grace Andoh and Jenna Kayla Sarpong. Forwards Mercy Attobrah and Mary Amponsah, along with midfielder Jessica Appiah, are the other players unavailable because of injury.

Despite the setbacks, Sampson has placed his confidence in the depth of the squad. He said Ghana’s approach has not been built around one individual and expects the available players to take on greater responsibility when the team begins its World Cup campaign.

The coach also believes the replacements can reduce the effect of the absences on the team. Ghana will therefore have to use the remaining squad members and possible replacements to cover important positions as Sampson completes his plans for the competition.

The Black Princesses’ preparations now involve managing the shortage of experienced options while keeping the group ready for the tournament in Poland. Sampson said the players remain highly motivated and prepared to respond to the challenge created by the injuries.