Head Coach of the Black Princesses Yussif Basigi spoke to the media on Sunday ahead of Ghana’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup opener against Austria on Monday.
Basigi who is making his second FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup is looking ahead to a blistering campaign having failed to progress from the group stage in 2018.
He spoke about his side’s readiness for the tournament, enthusiasm, motivation, strategy for the first game and support from the Government and the Ghana Football Association.
On team readiness
The players are match-ready because this is what they have been waiting for and the time has come. Looking at the enthusiasm amongst the technical staff, they are also ready because the players are looking up to us and we must be match-ready since they look up to us and if we are not match-ready, it affects the players.
On the blend of new and experienced players
Though this is the first major international competition for most of the players, fortunately, we were privileged to play two international friendly matches against Mexico and South Korea which has helped them a lot. They have gotten a feel of what to expect because these teams are also contenders. Our game against Nigeria in the African Games in Cape Coast has also given them strength in terms of stage fright because of the massive crowd.
On altitude in Colombia and how the players have responded
The players have been responding very well to training and I am very impressed with their performance. Initially, when we came to Colombia, we had challenges with the altitude. They struggled a little bit but after a week, they were okay. We played the friendly matches and they showed readiness.
On motivation ahead of the game
I am highly motivated and I am calm because it is not every coach that will get this opportunity to be at the world stage so you utilise it well. I have made the girls understand this might be the last for most of them or an opportunity to play for the senior team so this is a chance to justify why they should be included. The head Coach of the senior side is also in Colombia to assess some of the players which is remarkable.
On pressure
There is no pressure on me but rather I am motivated to take part in this tournament for the second time after being with the Black Princesses in France in 2018.
On plan for Austria
After watching some games of the Austrians, we will map up our tactical ploy against them as to what to do when we play them.
On support
We need the support and prayers of Ghanaians as usual and I know they are going to support us in every aspect as expected.
On Government of Ghana and the Ghana Football Association
The Government and the Ghana Football Association have really supported us right from camping in Cape Coast. We thank them for the support we are receiving because they are here with their representatives to make sure we are well taken care of if we have any difficulties or challenges.
The Black Princesses will play against Austria at the El Techo stadium in Bogotá at 22:00GMT.