2026 U17 Women’s World Cup: We came for nothing but victory against Canada – Ghana captain Seidatu Wahab

Black Maidens midfielder Seidatu Wahab says Ghana approached their decisive clash against Canada with an uncompromising determination to win, as the West African side secured a place in the Round of 16 with a 2-0 victory.

Wahab delivered a commanding performance in midfield to earn the Player of the Match award, helping Ghana overcome a difficult contest and advance to the knockout stage.

Goals from Linda Achiaa and Christiana Ashiaku sealed the victory, setting up a Round of 16 meeting with Argentina on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

The midfield enforcer admitted she had struggled to find her best form in recent matches but was determined to produce a strong performance when Ghana needed it most.

“Lately, in my matches, I have been down, but this is the final game. Not the final, but this is the qualification match, so I have to bring my all out,” Wahab said.

Wahab embraces leadership role

The midfielder said the importance of the qualification encounter demanded a special effort from her, particularly as she sought to lead her teammates through a challenging test against Canada.

Wahab played a key role in Ghana’s midfield, competing strongly for possession and helping the team maintain control during crucial periods of the match.

Reflecting on the contest, she acknowledged the difficulty of the assignment but insisted the Maidens were focused on securing all three points.

“The match was really tough, but I have to show I’m a leader. So, I brought all what I have in me. We really came for a win. That’s the only thing we came for. No draw, no loss, but a win.”

Her performance proved central to Ghana’s success as they held Canada at bay and converted their opportunities to secure qualification for the next round.

‘Nothing is really tough for the Maidens’

Wahab also highlighted the team’s resilience, maintaining that the Black Maidens are prepared to rise to difficult challenges.

The victory over Canada was particularly significant, with Ghana needing a positive result to confirm their progression to the knockout stage.

Despite the pressure surrounding the encounter, the midfielder said the team remained determined to achieve its objective.

“It was really a tough game, but nothing is really tough for the Maidens,” she added.

The statement reflected the confidence within the squad after Ghana negotiated a demanding fixture to book their place among the teams advancing to the Round of 16.

With Argentina now awaiting them, the Maidens will turn their attention to another important test as they seek to continue their campaign.

Midfielder thanks family and teammates

Beyond the collective effort, Wahab reserved special appreciation for the people who have supported her throughout her journey.

The Player of the Match said her best friend, parents and teammates had all played important roles in helping her deliver the performance against Canada.

“I would like to thank my best friend. Yeah, she’s the person I really thank, and my parents too. My teammates, they really helped me.”

Wahab’s recognition followed an influential display that helped Ghana secure one of the campaign’s important results.

The Black Maidens will now prepare for their Round of 16 encounter against Argentina on Wednesday, October 28, with Achiaa and Ashiaku’s goals against Canada providing the foundation for their progression.