The Ghana U20 Women's National Football Team, the Black Princesses, are staying in their training camp. They have not dispersed even after qualifying for the 2026 U20 Women's World Cup. This is because the players have not received their per diems, which are daily payments for expenses. These payments are owed from their last two qualifying matches.
The team played against South Africa in February. They also played against Uganda this month. Both matches were played over two legs, home and away. The Princesses won their qualification matches against Uganda to secure their place in Poland for the World Cup. The players are worried that if they leave camp, the issue of their unpaid per diems will be forgotten by officials.
This situation reflects a recurring challenge in Ghanaian sports management. Public finances allocated for national teams often face delays in disbursement. The GFA, Ghana's football governing body, did provide the team with a stipend upon their arrival in Accra. This payment was separate from the outstanding per diems. The team's qualification for the World Cup is a significant achievement, marking their eighth consecutive appearance at the tournament.
According to reports, the players specifically await per diems for the matches against South Africa and Uganda. These were crucial games that determined their World Cup berth. The team's decision to remain united in camp underscores their collective resolve to address the financial concerns. Reliable information on the exact amount owed is not publicly available, but such payments are standard for national team participation in international fixtures.
The team's continued presence in camp, as of May 13, 2026, creates an atmosphere of uncertainty regarding their preparation. Without their per diems, the players may face financial hardship. The Football Association and relevant government bodies are expected to intervene to resolve this matter promptly. Future international competitions for Ghanaian sports teams could be jeopardized if player welfare and timely payments are not prioritized.
The implications of this situation extend beyond the Black Princesses. It raises questions about the financial management within the Ghana Football Association. Investors and sponsors may reconsider their involvement if such payment issues persist. The Ministry of Youth and Sports, which often oversees such matters, will likely face scrutiny. Decisions regarding future funding and team logistics will be closely watched by the public.