Ghana's Black Queens made the perfect start to their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over tournament debutants Cape Verde in their Group D opener at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca today.
An early strike from Doris Boaduwaa in the sixth minute and an own goal forced by Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah in the 53rd minute secured all three points for the Black Queens, who delivered a composed and disciplined performance in their quest for a maiden continental title.
Cape Verde showed early attacking intent, but Ghana's well-organized defence, marshalled by an alert Cynthia Konlan in goal, stood firm to deny the tournament newcomers any clear scoring opportunities.
Kim Lars Björkegren's side controlled much of the contest, creating several chances and maintaining possession as they deservedly took command with goals in each half.
Cape Verde attempted to mount a response after the break, but Konlan remained assured between the posts, comfortably dealing with the few efforts that came her way.
With the result under control, Björkegren refreshed his side by introducing Princess Marfo for Sharon Simpson, Linda Eshun for Jennifer Cudjoe, and Princella Adubea for Alice Kusi.
The Black Queens coach later made two more changes, bringing on Abena Anoma Opoku for Susan Duah, while Evelyn Badu replaced Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah to add fresh energy in the closing stages.
Adubea, Marfo and Boye-Hlorkah all came close to extending Ghana's lead but failed to find the back of the net.
Jennifer Cudjoe was shown a yellow card in the 20th minute.
The final whistle confirmed a deserved victory for Ghana, who will now turn their attention to their second Group D fixture against Cameroon on Sunday, August 2.
Defender Josephine Afua Kyerewaa Bonsu was adjudged the Woman of the Match.
