Ghana’s Black Queens made a disappointing start to their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, falling 2-0 to defending champions South Africa at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda on Monday.
Despite a spirited performance, the Queens were undone by two quick first-half goals from Banyana Banyana, whose experience and attacking quality proved decisive. The defeat puts early pressure on Ghana as they seek to progress from a challenging Group C.
Alice Kusi came close to putting Ghana ahead with a powerful strike that smashed against the crossbar, while Evelyn Badu also hit the woodwork with a header from close range. Ghana showed moments of promise but were ultimately left to rue missed chances.
South Africa capitalised on lapses in Ghana’s defence, punishing them with clinical finishing that effectively sealed the result before the hour mark.
The Black Queens must now regroup for their remaining group matches against Mali and Tanzania. With the possibility of qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams still on the table, Ghana’s path to the knockout stage remains open, but they will need to respond quickly and decisively in their next outings.
Credit: ghanasoccernet.com
