Black Queens Falter as South Africa Secure 2-0 Victory in WAFCON Opener
Oudja, Morocco - 8 July, 2025 - Ghana's Black Queens suffered a 2-0 defeat to reigning champions South Africa in their opening match of the TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, despite a promising start at the Honneur Stadium in Oudja on Monday, 7 July 2025.
Under the guidance of new head coach Kim Lars Björkgren, the Black Queens returned to the continental stage after missing the 2022 tournament, aiming to make a statement against a formidable South African side.
The Ghanaian lineup, led by captain Portia Boakye, featured a robust defensive setup with Comfort Yeboah, Susan Ama Duah, and Anasthesia Achiaa, while midfielders Grace Asantewaa, Wassima Mohammed, and Alice Kusi supported forwards Doris Boaduwaa and Evelyn Badu. Cynthia Konlan Findiib guarded the goal.The Black Queens began brightly, controlling possession and exploiting the wings during the first 15 minutes.
However, missed opportunities, notably by Doris Boaduwaa, allowed South Africa to settle into the game. The turning point came in the 30th minute when a foul by Grace Asantewaa in the penalty area led to a spot-kick, which Linda Motlhalo converted with precision. Just three minutes later, Jermaine Seoposenwe capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home a composed finish, doubling South Africa's lead.Despite a spirited response in the second half, Ghana could not find a way past South Africa’s goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, who made several key saves, including a stunning stop to deny Grace Asantewaa.
The Black Queens struck the crossbar twice through efforts from Alice Kusi and Evelyn Badu but failed to convert their chances into goals.South Africa, ranked 54th globally and second in Africa, showcased their championship pedigree with a clinical performance, maintaining an unbeaten record in seven matches this year. Ghana, ranked 66th globally and sixth in Africa, struggled to match their opponents’ efficiency, having secured only three wins in eight official matches in 2025.
The defeat leaves Ghana with an uphill task in Group C, where they face Mali and Tanzania in their remaining fixtures. South Africa, with three points, sit in a strong position to advance, while Ghana must now secure positive results to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive, with qualification as one of the best third-placed teams still a possibility.
The Black Queens’ next challenge comes against Mali on Friday, 11 July 2025, a match critical to their tournament aspirations.
Source: Lead News Online
