Ghana’s Black Queens began their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a 2-0 loss to defending champions South Africa in their opening Group C clash.
Kim Björkegren’s side showed promise early in the match and nearly took the lead when a powerful effort was tipped onto the crossbar by South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.
Despite Ghana’s positive start, it was South Africa who struck first. Against the run of play, Linda Motlhalo converted a penalty in the 29th minute after Grace Asantewaa was penalized for a foul on Noxolo Cesane inside the box.
Just four minutes later, Banyana Banyana doubled their advantage through Jermaine Seoposenwe, who fired a low shot past the goalkeeper to put the reigning champions firmly in control.
Ghana responded with a series of attacking moves, with Asantewaa and Doris Boaduwaa both coming close to reducing the deficit, but they were unable to convert their chances.
In the second half, the Black Queens pushed forward with urgency. Alice Kusi and Evelyn Badu both rattled the crossbar, while substitute Princess Marfo forced a fine save from Dlamini.
Despite their efforts, Ghana couldn’t find a breakthrough and will now look ahead to crucial fixtures against Mali and Tanzania as they aim to secure a place in the knockout stages.
This marks Ghana’s first appearance at the WAFCON since 2018.
