The Black Queens of Ghana took a commanding step toward qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a resounding 3-0 win over Egypt in Ismailia on Thursday evening.
Head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren named a strong starting lineup for the first-leg encounter, with Stella Nyamekye, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Alice Kusi supporting lead striker Doris Boaduwaa. Jennifer Cudjoe and Grace Asantewaa anchored the midfield, while Comfort Yeboah, Susan Ama Duah, Portia Boakye, and Josephine Bonsu marshaled the defence. Cynthia Konlan started in goal.
The hosts began brightly, creating a few early chances but failing to seriously test Konlan. The Ghanaians gradually took control as the match wore on, with their midfield duo dictating play and turning possession into purposeful attacks.
Their dominance paid off just before halftime when Cudjoe’s precise through ball found Boaduwaa, who calmly slotted home to hand Ghana a deserved lead heading into the break.
The second half saw Ghana tighten their grip on proceedings. Egypt’s task became even tougher when one of their players was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Asantewaa.
Josephine Bonsu’s curling free kick struck the post, while substitute Mary Amponsah was denied by the crossbar in the 74th minute. Nyamekye also forced a fine save from the Egyptian goalkeeper with a long-range effort.
The Black Queens’ persistence eventually paid off when Amponsah pounced on a rebound from Princess Marfo’s header to make it 2-0. Moments later, Asantewaa capped a brilliant team performance with Ghana’s third goal, sealing a comfortable away victory.
The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, at the Accra Sports Stadium, where Ghana will look to complete the job and book their place at the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.