Ghana U-17 women’s national team head coach Nana Joe Adarkwa has expressed pride in his players and technical team despite their elimination from the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Black Maidens’ campaign came to an end following their defeat to Japan, with Adarkwa acknowledging that although his team gave everything on the pitch, their efforts were not enough to secure progression in the competition.
Speaking after the team touched down in Ghana, the Ghanaian tactician praised his players for their commitment and fighting spirit, while also congratulating Japan for their performance.
“I am proud of the ladies, proud of my technical team; they did well, they played their hearts out, and they did their best, but our best wasn’t enough,” Adarkwa said.
“In the end, I have to congratulate the Japanese; they did well.”
The coach also indicated that the technical team would take time to assess the campaign, identify areas that require improvement and build on the positives ahead of future assignments.
“Going forward, we are going to sit back and see what happens; we will build on the positives and learn from the things we did wrong,” he added.
Adarkwa also wished Nigeria well as the West African nation remains Africa’s sole representative in the tournament, expressing hope that they can carry the continent’s flag further in the competition.