WAFCON heartbreak for Ghana as South Africa’s early strikes sink Black Queens

Ghana’s senior national women’s football team, the Black Queens, suffered a 2-0 defeat against defending champions South Africa in their opening match of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco on Monday, 7 July.

The Group C clash at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda saw South Africa’s Bayana Bayana strike twice in the first half, leaving Ghana with an uphill battle.

Despite a spirited second-half display, the Black Queens couldn’t break through, marking a frustrating return to the continental stage after a six-year absence.

Early chances, costly mistakes

Ghana started brightly, with Anasthesia Achiaa forcing a superb save from South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, who tipped her effort onto the crossbar. But against the run of play, the defending champions pounced.

A penalty, controversially awarded after Grace Asantewaa was adjudged to have fouled Noxolo Cesane, allowed Linda Motlhalo to calmly slot home the opener in the 28th minute.

Just six minutes later, Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled the lead with a sharp low finish, leaving Ghana stunned.

Missed opportunities haunt Ghana

The Black Queens fought back after the break, with Alice Kusi and Evelyn Badu both rattling the crossbar. Substitute Princess Marfo also tested Dlamini, but South Africa’s defence held firm.

Ghana’s wastefulness in front of goal proved costly, with reigning Women’s Footballer of the Year Doris Boaduwaa unable to convert a promising chance on the counter.

What’s next for the Black Queens?

Coach Kim Lars Björkegren will demand sharper finishing when Ghana faces Mali in their next Group C fixture on 11 July at the Stade Municipal de Berkane.

A win could reignite their knockout hopes in a tight group that also includes Tanzania.

For now, South Africa sits comfortably atop the group, while Ghana must regroup quickly to keep their WAFCON dreams alive.