Ghana’s Black Queens surrendered their early dominance, losing 2-0 to South Africa in the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations opener in Oudja.
Coach Kim Lars Björkgren’s starting lineup featured Cynthia Konlan Findiib in goal, with Captain Portia Boakye leading the team. The defensive line consisted of Comfort Yeboah, Susan Ama Duah, and Anasthesia Achiaa, supported by midfielders Grace Asantewaa, Wassima Mohammed, and Alice Kusi, with Doris Boaduwaa and Evelyn Badu upfront.
The Black Queens dominated the opening 15 minutes, breaking down their opponents on the wings in search of the opening goal. However, Doris Boaduwaa’s missed opportunities allowed South Africa to regroup. The momentum shifted when Linda Motlhalo scored a penalty in the 30th minute, after Grace Asantewaa was judged to have fouled her opponent in the box. Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled the lead with a composed finish just three minutes later.
Despite creating some scoring chances, Ghana’s Black Queens couldn’t capitalize, hitting the woodwork twice through Alice Kusi and Evelyn Badu.
South Africa goalkeeper Andile Dlamini made crucial saves, including one from Grace Asantewaa’s shot, to keep a clean sheet and protect the two-goal advantage.
The win puts South Africa in a strong position in Group C with three points, and two more matches to play against Tanzania and Mali. The Black Queens will need to regroup and refocus on their upcoming matches against Mali and Tanzania to stay competitive in the tournament.
Ghana will square off against Mali in their second Group C match on Friday, July 11, 2025.
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