Ghana’s Black Maidens suffered a 3-0 defeat by Norway in their opening Group C match at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The game took place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex on Sunday, as Ghana returned to the tournament after missing the previous edition.

Norway took control through three outstanding individual finishes, beginning with a spectacular effort from Isabella Lepore. The midfielder struck from 30 yards, sending the ball against the underside of the crossbar before it crossed the line.

The European side extended their advantage with another technically impressive goal. Hanne Nesse won possession near the edge of the penalty area and set up Maia Melgard, who moved the ball onto her left foot before curling a precise finish into the net.

Ghana, managed by Joe Nana Adarkwa, improved after half-time and created an opportunity to reduce the deficit. Substitute Cynthia Obinsrewuo was released through on goal, but Norway goalkeeper Erla Braathen produced an important save to keep out her effort.

Norway completed the scoring midway through the second half, with Melgard involved again. After exchanging passes from a corner, she cut inside and struck another powerful, accurate effort that gave Ghana goalkeeper Belinda Manu Aklie no chance.

The victory was Norway’s first in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Ghana now face a difficult task in Group C, with matches against Brazil and Canada still to come. The Black Maidens will turn their attention to their second group fixture, where they must respond to this defeat to maintain their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.