Ghana’s hopes of a strong start at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) were dashed on Monday as the Black Queens suffered a 2-0 defeat to defending champions South Africa in their Group C opener at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, Morocco.
In a match that underscored the gap in tactical discipline and composure between the two sides, South Africa—known as Banyana Banyana—controlled the tempo from the outset, leaving Ghana chasing shadows for much of the first half.
The game’s turning point came in the 27th minute when a clumsy challenge by Ghana’s Grace Asantewaa in the box gifted South Africa a penalty. Linda Motlhalo made no mistake from the spot, giving the reigning champions a deserved lead. Just six minutes later, South Africa doubled their advantage through Jermaine Seoposenwe, who finished off a slick attacking move that exposed gaps in the Ghanaian backline.
While Ghana attempted to respond through the efforts of Doris Boaduwaa and Evelyn Badu, their attacking play lacked cohesion, and clear-cut chances remained elusive. The Black Queens upped their intensity in the second half, but South Africa’s defensive organization and ball retention ensured the scoreline remained unchanged.
Despite coming into the tournament with high expectations following a solid run of pre-tournament friendlies, including games against Nigeria and Malawi, Ghana’s performance highlighted issues in execution and defensive awareness that need urgent addressing ahead of their remaining group matches against Mali and Tanzania.
The loss leaves Ghana at the bottom of Group C and with everything to play for in their next two games if they are to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Banyana Banyana’s dominant display reaffirms their status as tournament favorites, even in the absence of star forward Thembi Kgatlana. Their fluid attack and solid midfield control suggest they remain a force to beat in this year’s competition.
Ghana’s technical bench now faces the task of reshuffling and reigniting a team in need of both confidence and tactical refinement.
