Black Maidens celebrating a goal at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup

Women’s football in Ghana is set to improve after the national Under-17 team reached the FIFA U17 World Cup finals in Azerbaijan.

Ghana defied odds to eliminate much-fancied Japan on Friday to book a historic semi final date with France on Tuesday.

A 53rd minute strike by Sherifatu Sumaila handed a priceless 1-0 victory to the Black Maidens to ensure the continuation of their fairy tale story in Azerbaijan.

This also makes Ghana the only surviving African side in the competition following Thursday’s elimination of Nigeria.

The Black Maidens have already impressed by becoming the only Ghanaian female team to go past the group stage at a World Cup at all levels.

Ghana’s U20 women’s team, the Black Princesses disappointed many with their first round elimination in last month’s Women’s U-20 championship in Germany.

Their early exit further waned the already dwindling interest in the women’s game in Ghana.

But the Miadens’ surge to the semi finals have restored hope in women’s football in the West African country.

Several football fans are now following the Ghana U-17 team with keen interest – almost like when the Black Stars are in action.

This new-found interest could soar even further if the Black Maidens manage a win over France in the semi final game on Tuesday.

Their progress to the grand finale in the event of a win over France will also atone for Nigeria’s exit at the World Cup as the Europeans were responsible for the Flamingoes’ exit from the competition.