Ghana’s Black Queens have started their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026 campaign on a winning note after defeating tournament debutants Cape Verde 2-0 in their opening Group D fixture.
The Black Queens took control of the game early and were rewarded in the 7th through forward Doris Boaduwaa, who produced an excellent chip after connecting with a brilliant long assist from captain Portia Boakye.
Ghana continued to pile pressure on the Cape Verdean side, but their opponents proved difficult to break down, with goalkeeper Jacinta producing several outstanding saves to keep her team in the game. The Cape Verde defence remained resolute throughout the first half, while Ghana’s backline also stayed alert to prevent any threat from the debutants.
The second half saw Ghana continue their dominance, with head coach Kim Lars Björkegren making changes to strengthen the team. Sharon Sampson replaced Princess Marfo at the start of the second half.
Ghana doubled their advantage in the 54th minute after Cape Verde defender Vieira turned the ball into her own net following sustained pressure from Doris Boaduwaa and the Black Queens.
Further changes followed as Princella Adubea and Linda Owusu Ansah came on for Alice Kusi and Jennifer Cudjoe in the 63rd minute, while Abena Anoma Opoku replaced Susan Ama Duah in the 75th minute.
Cape Verde also made adjustments in search of a comeback, but Ghana remained composed and managed the game effectively. Evelyn Badu later replaced Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah in the 87th minute.
Cape Verde’s difficult evening ended on a sour note when Borges received a straight red card in the 90th minute after a reckless challenge on Ghana midfielder Linda Owusu Ansah.
At full-time, the Black Queens celebrated a deserved 2-0 victory to begin their WAFCON Morocco 2026 campaign with three maximum points. The team picked up only one yellow card in the match, shown to Jennifer Cudjoe.
Ghana defender Josephine Bonsu was rewarded for her outstanding performance by being named Woman of the Match, following a commanding display at the back.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, being hosted in Morocco, began on July 26 and will run until August 16. Ghana has been drawn in Group D alongside Mali, Cameroon, and Cape Verde.
The Black Queens will now turn their attention to their next group match against Cameroon on Sunday, August 2, 2026, as they continue their quest for continental glory.
