Ghana’s Black Maidens began their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 3-0 defeat to Norway in their Group C opener at the Mohammed VI Football Complex on Sunday.

The Black Maidens, returning to the tournament after missing the previous edition, were undone by three superb strikes from the European side.

Norway broke the deadlock in spectacular fashion when Isabella Lepore unleashed a thunderous effort from 30 yards. Her strike crashed against the underside of the crossbar before crossing the line to give Norway the lead.

The Europeans doubled their advantage with another superb finish. Hanne Nesse collected the ball on the edge of the box before laying it off to Maia Melgard, who shifted onto her left foot and curled a delightful effort into the net.

Coach Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side responded positively after the break and came close to pulling a goal back when substitute Cynthia Obinsrewuo was sent through on goal, but Norwegian goalkeeper Erla Braathen produced a fine save to deny her.

Norway sealed the victory midway through the second half when Melgard exchanged passes from a corner, cut inside and unleashed another stunning effort that left goalkeeper Belinda Manu Aklie with no chance.

The defeat leaves Ghana with work to do in Group C, with Brazil and Canada still to come. The Maidens must now regroup ahead of their second group fixture as they seek to bounce back and keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.