Christiana Ashiaku was named the Most Valuable Player after her sensational hat-trick powered Ghana's Black Maidens to a 4-1 win over Benin in the opening match of the WAFU B U-17 Girls Cup on Thursday, December 12, 2024.

The match, held at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, saw the talented youngster deliver a dominant performance, scoring in the 17th, 44th, and 45th minutes.

Her clinical finishing and composure in front of goal were pivotal in securing Ghana's victory in the maiden sub-regional championship.

Priscilla Mensah opened the scoring early in the 6th minute, setting the tone for a commanding first-half performance.

Ashiaku doubled the lead with a well-taken goal before her brilliance took center stage. She converted a penalty in the 44th minute and sealed her hat-trick with a sublime finish just before halftime, giving Ghana a comfortable 4-0 advantage.

Despite a spirited second-half effort from Benin, which saw them score a consolation goal through Yenido Gandonou, the Black Maidens maintained control and saw out the match with ease.

Ashiaku’s dominant display highlighted her immense potential and marked her as a player to watch in the tournament.

The victory gives Ghana a strong start and sets the tone for their next group-stage match, where they will face Benin again on Saturday, December 14, 2024.

The Black Maidens are determined to build on this momentum as they aim for glory on home soil.