Jessica Appiah scored early, led the fight a player down, and then buried the winning spot-kick as the Black Maidens reached the quarter-finals.
Ghana's Black Maidens are into the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, and Jessica Appiah is the reason Africa is still cheering. The forward scored the opener and then the winning penalty as Ghana edged Argentina 5-4 in a shootout in the Round of 16.
Appiah put Ghana ahead early, meeting Cynthia Obinsrewuo's square pass and driving it home with a powerful strike. It was a clinical finish that set the tone for a contest that would later test the nerves of everyone involved.
The game turned tense when Hajara Adam was sent off with 13 minutes left, leaving Ghana with ten players. Even then, Appiah kept running at the Argentine defense and kept the pressure on. Argentina still found a way to force extra-time, and the tie went to penalties.
In the shootout, Oriana Gomez missed for Argentina, and Appiah stepped up to convert the decisive kick and send Ghana through. She was named Player of the Match, a fitting reward for a night of composure, courage and big-moment quality.
For the Black Maidens, this was more than a win. Down to ten, pushed to the limit and still standing, Ghana showed the kind of determination that can carry a team deep into a World Cup.
