Ghana Women Begin WAFCON Campaign with Comfortable Win Over Cabo Verde

The Ghana Women’s national team opened their CAF Women’s African Cup of Nations journey with a confident 2-0 victory over Cabo Verde Women on July 30, 2026. Playing in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the tournament venue, the Black Queens displayed superior technical ability and tactical organisation to secure three crucial points.

First-Half Control

Ghana took the lead in the 22nd minute through captain Elizabeth Addo. The experienced midfielder met a cross from Priscilla Adubea with a precise volley that beat Cabo Verde goalkeeper Ivânia Moreira. The goal settled any early nerves, and Ghana continued to dominate possession, with winger Sandra Owusu-Ansah causing problems down the left flank. Cabo Verde struggled to create clear chances, as Ghana’s centre-back pairing of Linda Eshun and Janet Egyir proved impenetrable.

Second-Half Seal

The Black Queens doubled their advantage in the 58th minute. A swift counterattack saw striker Micheal Akakpo (no relation to the male player) sprint onto a long ball from Portia Boakye and slot calmly past Moreira. From there, Ghana managed the game expertly, keeping Cabo Verde at arm’s length while occasionally threatening a third. The win puts Ghana level on points with group rivals and sends a strong statement to the rest of the tournament.

Tournament Context

With this result, Ghana take an early lead in Group B. Cabo Verde, making only their second appearance at the WAFCON, showed fighting spirit but lacked the cutting edge in the final third. The Black Queens will now look ahead to their next group match, where a win could secure early qualification for the knockout stages.