Former Black Stars captain, Andre Dede Ayew paid a surprise visit to the Black Maidens' camping base on Friday, offering words of encouragement and motivation ahead of the crucial FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup qualifier against Senegal.

Andre Ayew spent time interacting with the players and technical team as preparations intensify for Saturday's decisive return leg at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Victory for Ghana will secure qualification for the upcoming FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

The experienced forward urged the players to embrace the occasion, remain confident, and give everything for the nation.

Andre reminded the girls that: “Opportunities like these do not come around often and I encourage you to play with courage, discipline and belief in their abilities," he said during his address.

The former Black Stars skipper also emphasized the importance of representing Ghana with pride, telling the players to trust the hard work they have put in throughout the campaign.

"You need to stay united, enjoy the moment and leave everything on the pitch. The entire country is behind you and believe you can qualify," he added.

The Black Maidens Management Committee Chairman, Nana Sarfo Oduro welcomed the visit, describing it as a timely morale booster ahead of one of the team's biggest matches.

"Having someone of Andre Ayew's stature come to support the girls means a lot. His words have lifted the team's spirits and given the players extra motivation as we prepare for this important game,” he said.

The Black Maidens will host Senegal on Saturday with a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup at stake, as Ghana looks to seal qualification in front of home supporters.