In a dramatic semifinal clash of the WAFU Zone A competition, Liberia’s Under-20 Women’s team suffered a heartbreaking loss to Guinea Bissau, succumbing 3-1 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The defeat halts Liberia’s impressive run and sets them up for a third-place match against Guinea on Wednesday.
The match against Guinea Bissau was a tense and closely contested affair. Despite their spirited performance, Liberia could not find the winning goal, leading to the dreaded penalty shootout. Guinea Bissau held their nerve, converting three penalties to Liberia’s one, securing their place in the final.
Liberia’s journey to the semifinals had been marked by dominance and victory. The team overpowered Mauritania and Sierra Leone with identical 7-0 victories, showcasing their offensive prowess and solid defense.
The campaign began with a confident 2-0 win over Guinea, setting the tone for their group stage dominance. Coach Famatta Dean’s tactical acumen was evident throughout the competition.
She effectively utilized key players such as Louise Brown, Erica Parsons, Diatta Langama, and Victoria Wilkins, who were reinstated in the starting lineup for the crucial semifinal. Goalkeeper Albertha Pratt, who had kept three clean sheets in the group stage, was also maintained, highlighting Dean’s trust in her defensive unit.
One of the standout players of the tournament for Liberia has been Edwardline Jackson, who won three consecutive Woman of the Match awards for her brilliant performances against Guinea, Mauritania, and Sierra Leone. Jackson’s consistent excellence has been a bright spot for Liberia and a testament to her skill and determination.
In the semifinal against Guinea Bissau, Liberia fielded a strong squad: Choice Topkah, Albertha Capehart, Patience Kawolo, Diatta Langama, Victoria Wilkins, Princess Bogar, Louise Brown, Erica Parsons, Edwardline Jackson, and Jessica Quachie. Despite their efforts, the team fell short in the penalty shootout.
With the semifinal loss now behind them, all attention turns to the third-place match against Guinea. A victory in this match would provide some consolation for the team and a chance to end the tournament on a high note.
Meanwhile, the spotlight is also shifting to Liberia’s Under-17 Women’s team, who are preparing for a crucial encounter against Nigeria in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers. This highly anticipated match is set for June 9, 2024, at 4 PM at the SKD Sports Complex Practice Pitch in Paynesville. Expectations are high as the younger squad aims to follow in the footsteps of their Under-20 counterparts and make a mark on the international stage.
Despite the disappointment of the semifinal loss, the Liberia Under-20 Women’s team has shown resilience and talent throughout the WAFU Zone A competition. Their journey, filled with high-scoring victories and standout performances, has been a testament to their potential and promise.
As they prepare for the third-place match, the team and their supporters will hope for a strong finish to what has been an exciting tournament.
