Basigi optimistic despite Black Princesses’ defeat against Austria

Head coach Yussif Basigi is optimistic about the Black Princesses’ chances in their next match against Japan, after a heavy 2-1 defeat to Austria in their opening match.

Despite a slow start, the team dominated the second half and showed promise, but failed to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

“We started the game slowly, but in the second half we improved our game and in the second half we dominated the game when we were one goal down,” he said.

“We didn’t take many of our chances to score goals, which was a shame. I think we have to work really hard on that so we can get back into the game.”

“The performance in the second half was very good. If we had started the first half the same way as the second half it would have been great, but we started slowly.”

Basigi acknowledged the pressure to perform but remained motivated. He stressed the need to improve and make the most of their remaining games with a formidable squad and valuable experience from previous international friendlies. The Black Princesses are determined to make a strong comeback in their next match.

“I wouldn’t say there is no pressure at all because if we had won or drawn this game against Austria it would have motivated us, but now we have no choice but to give everything with the remaining two games to go,” Basigi added.

Ghana will face Japan in the second match of Group E on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

Austria scored in both halves to beat Ghana 2-1 at the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia.

Hannah Fankhauter scored in the 12th minute to give her team the lead after scoring a wonderful team performance.

Ghana continued to push for an equaliser, but the World Cup debutant held on to their slender lead until half-time.

After the break, Yussif Basigi brought on Mafia Nyame and Beline Nyarkoh for Salamatu Abdulai and Asana Mohammed. Again, Ghana captain Stella Nyamekye saw her long-range shot hit the post in the 52nd minute.

The second goal of the match came against the run of play, with Asana Alhassan being penalised for handling the ball in the penalty area, with Nicole Ojukwu slotting in the ensuing penalty to make it 2-0 to Austria.

Stella Nyamekye scored again in the 90th minute, but it was not enough: the match ended 2-1 in favor of Austria.

Ghana will play their second match in Group E against Japan on Thursday, September 5, 2024.