Ghana Cruise Past Cape Verde 2-0 as Boaduwaa Shines in WAFCON Opener

Ghana began their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign on a winning note with a 2-0 victory over tournament debutants Cape Verde in their Group D opener on Wednesday in Casablanca, Morocco.

The result denied Cape Verde the chance to follow the example set by fellow WAFCON newcomers Malawi, who shocked defending champions Nigeria 3-2 a day earlier through a three-goal performance by sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga.

Although ranked 60 places below Ghana, Cape Verde entered the match hoping to produce an upset against the 2024 bronze medallists and build on the growing reputation of the country’s football following the men’s impressive World Cup campaign.

Ghana took control early when Doris Boaduwaa connected with a lofted pass from Portia Boakye in the seventh minute and delicately lifted the ball over goalkeeper Jacinta Rodrigues to open the scoring.

The Black Queens doubled their lead in the 54th minute after Eleia Vieira accidentally diverted a cross into her own net.

Rodrigues was one of Cape Verde’s standout performers, making several important saves to keep the scoreline respectable as Ghana created numerous chances throughout the contest.

Boaduwaa threatened to score more goals before halftime, using her pace and aerial ability to trouble the Cape Verde defence.

Cape Verde’s best opportunity came after the second goal when Ivania Moreira’s bold attempt from the halfway line forced Ghana goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan into a smart save.

The match ended on a disappointing note for the debutants as Kleydiana Borges was sent off in stoppage time after a VAR review confirmed a foul on Linda Ansah, leaving Cape Verde with 10 players at the final whistle.

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