Ladystrikers FC assistant coach Abigail Sarkodie Mantey has sounded a confident but measured tone ahead of today’s crucial Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League second-leg clash against Hasaacas Ladies FC, insisting her side is fully aware of what the fixture demands—both mentally and tactically.
Speaking ahead of the encounter at the Jukwa Astro Turf today, Sarkodie Mantey described the match as one that goes beyond league points, stressing that meetings with Hasaacas Ladies always test a team’s discipline, concentration, and character.
“We know what happens when we meet Hasaacas Ladies. These are not ordinary games. They are intense, tactical, and decided by fine margins. Our players understand this very well,” she said.
Learning From the First Leg
Ladystrikers FC narrowly lost the reverse fixture away after conceding a late penalty, a moment that still lingers within the camp. According to Sarkodie Mantey, that experience has been carefully reviewed—not as a setback, but as a learning curve.
“We reviewed the first leg in detail. The performance was disciplined, and the structure was solid. Unfortunately, a late decision changed the outcome. What matters now is how we respond at home,” she explained.
She emphasized that the technical team has worked extensively on maintaining focus until the final whistle, an area the team believes will be decisive in today’s match.
Confidence From Recent Performances
Despite a demanding run of fixtures, Ladystrikers FC approach the game with renewed belief, having shown resilience across recent league outings. Sarkodie Mantey highlighted the team’s growing maturity and cohesion, particularly in tight matches.
“This group has grown. We’ve played 11 league games now, and you can see the understanding improving. The players are more composed, more confident, and tactically aware,” she noted.
Home advantage, she added, could play a significant role.
“Playing at Jukwa gives us energy. The players feed off the support, and we are always braver at home. That is something we want to use positively.”
Spotlight on New Signing Rashida Alhassan
One of the key talking points ahead of the fixture is the growing involvement of Rashida Alhassan, Ladystrikers FC’s recent signing, who made her debut in the club’s previous match.
Rashida announced herself immediately, finding the back of the net with a well-taken finish—only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. Despite the disappointment, Sarkodie Mantey believes the debut showed exactly why the club moved to bring her in.
“Rashida settled very quickly. The disallowed goal didn’t affect her confidence, and that tells you a lot about her mentality. She brings pace, movement, and a strong attacking presence,” she said.
The assistant coach confirmed that Rashida remains very much in contention for today’s match and will continue to be integrated gradually as the season progresses.
“She’s hungry, she listens, and she wants to contribute. That’s the kind of player every coach wants in the squad.”
What to Expect Today
Asked what fans should expect from Ladystrikers FC against Hasaacas Ladies, Sarkodie Mantey was clear: intensity, structure, and belief.
“Expect a disciplined team, one that understands the opponent but also believes in itself. We respect Hasaacas Ladies, but we are not afraid. This is our home, and we are ready to compete.”
She concluded with a message to supporters:
“We ask the fans to come and support the girls. These matches are decided by moments, and the energy from the stands can make that difference.”
As kickoff approaches, Ladystrikers FC head into another defining chapter of their season—aware of the challenge ahead, but confident in their preparation, leadership, and growing depth.
Venue: Jukwa Astro Turf
Date: Saturday, February 07, 2026
Kickoff: 3:00 PM