Ghana's Black Maidens head coach, Joe Nana Adarkwa, has expressed concerns that recent comments by Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Iddie Adams have impacted the morale of his players. The minister had stated that the Black Maidens are not owed any outstanding bonuses or per diems, citing that the Sports Ministry only covers such payments during major international tournaments, not qualification competitions. Adarkwa, however, believes financial incentives remain crucial for players representing the country.
According to Minister Adams, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) funds teams during the qualification stage, while the ministry assumes responsibility only when a team reaches an approved major international tournament like the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. The Black Maidens have already secured qualification for the World Cup, where they will face Brazil, Norway, and Canada in Group C. Despite this, Adarkwa insists that the comments have had an impact on his squad.
The Black Maidens coach questioned why support had been provided for the Black Princesses but not the Black Maidens. He emphasized that every player knows that playing well results in receiving per diems and bonuses for qualifying for the World Cup. Adarkwa asked, "If the Ministry can pay the Under-20, why can't they pay the Under-17?" This highlights the perceived inconsistency in financial support for different national teams.
Adarkwa also defended the credentials of coaches working with Ghana's youth national teams, rejecting any suggestion that coaching at junior level should be viewed differently. He stated that coaches have qualification certificates and that coaching women's football might be harder. The coach emphasized that it's the same game being played, regardless of the level or gender.
The Black Maidens began their WAFU B U-17 Girls Cup campaign with a 4-0 win over Burkina Faso but suffered a 4-2 defeat to Nigeria in their second Group C match. Ghana will look to return to winning ways when they face Togo on September 21. Despite off-field distractions, Adarkwa remains optimistic, stating that his side will not lose hope and will continue to play football that will lift the national flag high.
The WAFU B U-17 Girls Cup serves as part of Ghana's preparations for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco and as a qualifier for the inaugural U-17 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. Adarkwa expressed determination to psych his players up for the remaining three games, aiming to finish the tournament strongly.
The controversy surrounding Minister Adams' comments has not deterred the Black Maidens, with the team focused on their campaign. Adarkwa's side will look to secure a positive result against Togo, with the coach confident that his team will rise above the distractions and perform well.
Key points
- The Black Maidens' morale has been affected by Minister Kofi Adams' comments on bonuses and per diems.
- The team has secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.
- The WAFU B U-17 Girls Cup serves as a qualifier for the inaugural U-17 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
