Two decisive fixtures bring the first leg of the third round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers to a close on Sunday, with four of Africa’s strongest youth sides battling for an early advantage in the race to reach the next stage.
Ghana begin their qualifying campaign with a high-profile meeting against South Africa, a contest that underlines the growing depth and competitiveness of women’s football on the continent.
The Black Princesses host a South African side that has built a reputation for tactical discipline and physical intensity, setting the scene for a finely balanced encounter in which small margins could prove decisive.
Both teams arrive at this stage of the qualifiers with strong credentials and a clear ambition to progress.
Ghana’s youth sides have traditionally relied on technical ability and quick transitions, while South Africa’s structured approach and collective organisation have made them difficult opponents in recent international competitions.
The opening leg is therefore expected to be as much a test of patience and game management as of attacking quality, with each side aware that the tie will be settled over two matches.
Later in the day, attention shifts to the second fixture, where Ivory Coast’s Young Elephants take on the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This meeting is widely anticipated to be a more physical contest, with both teams known for their athletic profiles and direct style of play.
The first leg will be crucial in shaping the momentum of the tie, as neither side will want to travel into the return match carrying a significant deficit.
Ivory Coast will be seeking to make home advantage count by imposing tempo early, while the DRC are expected to rely on resilience and strength in duels to keep the contest within reach.
With qualification for the fourth round at stake, discipline and concentration will be essential, particularly in the closing stages, where a single lapse could swing the tie.
Across both matches, the stakes are clear.
Progression to the next round of the U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers will be contested until the final whistle, and every phase of play could influence the overall outcome.
Coaches and players alike understand that these first-leg encounters are about more than immediate results; they are about setting a platform for success in the return fixtures.
Sunday’s schedule for the U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers:
- 4:30 PM: Ghana vs South Africa
- 6:00 PM: Ivory Coast vs DR Congo
With four ambitious teams in action and qualification on the line, Sunday’s programme promises intensity, tactical intrigue and a reminder of the rapid development of women’s football across Africa.
