Black Princesses assistant coach Anita Wiredu-Minta thrilled to return to FIFA World Cup

Black Princesses assistant coach DSI Anita Wiredu-Minta is elated to return to the FIFA World Cup after missing her chance to play at the senior level.

The former Ghana player, who was sidelined from the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup due to a knee injury, previously served as the Welfare Officer for the Black Princesses in 2018.

Reflecting on her journey, Wiredu-Minta shared her excitement about the upcoming FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, where she will be an assistant coach.

"I was part of the Black Queens team that qualified for the World Cup in 2007, but unfortunately, I couldn’t make it due to knee surgery," she said.

"However, I had the chance to go to the U-20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 as the welfare officer. It was an exciting moment because I always wanted to go to a World Cup but didn’t get the chance.

When the U-20 girls qualified, I felt this was my moment."

Wiredu-Minta expressed her excitement about her current role: "The Black Princesses have qualified for the U-20 World Cup in Colombia, and this time I will be there as an assistant coach.

It is more exciting because the first time in France 2018, I was the welfare officer and not really involved in the technical aspect of the game.

As an assistant coach, you’re practically involved on the field by giving tactical advice. I feel very much involved.

The players will play your mind, and whatever you’ve imparted to them—they are playing your thoughts on the field."

She acknowledged the significance of coaching at the World Cup: "This is going to be big for me, and I’m a bit nervous, but I expect a lot from the players.

I know we will make it past the group stage this time around. Being the only female coach on the technical team is an honour and a privilege, but I also see it as a challenge to put in my best and be the torchbearer for female coaches in Ghana and Africa. I want to show that we can also do it."

In her message to aspiring female players, she emphasized the opportunities beyond playing: "My message to my female players is that it’s never over when you stop playing football.

There are more opportunities in the game, not just coaching. If they want to be coaches, they have to be tough and very focused because we are in a man’s world.

They need to widen their knowledge space, learn, and acquire more understanding of the game. I believe they can overcome any challenge.

You don’t need to feel you are competing with men; instead, learn from them. Keep your confidence high and be alert, and you can reach any height you set your eyes on."

The FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will take place in Colombia from Saturday, August 31 to Sunday, September 22, 2024.

Ghana will compete in Group E against Japan, New Zealand, and Austria.