Ghana turns its experience into a commanding start against historic WAFCON debutants Cape Verde

The Black Queens imposed their experience from the opening minutes and capitalized on two decisive moments to defeat a Cape Verde side that experienced a historic occasion in its first WAFCON appearance.

Ghana begins with authority against Cape Verde

Ghana opened its 2026 WAFCON campaign with a 2-0 victory over Cape Verde at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca.

The Black Queens used their experience in the competition to control the match from the opening minutes and overcome a Cape Verde side playing the first game in its history at the continental tournament finals.

Doris Boaduwaa opened the scoring early in the match, while an own goal from Eleia Vieira in the second half secured Ghana’s first three points in Group D.

Boaduwaa transforms Ghana’s start

Portia Boakye found the space to set up Doris Boaduwaa, who took advantage of the opportunity to make it 1-0 and put the Black Queens ahead within the opening six minutes.

The goal allowed Kim Lars Björkegren’s side to control the tempo of the match and place all the pressure on the debutants.

Cape Verde tried to respond with intensity and determination, but struggled to break through the defensive structure of a Ghana side accustomed to competing on this kind of stage.

An own goal ends Cape Verde’s resistance

Ghana struck again nine minutes after the start of the second half.

An attacking move from the Black Queens caused problems inside the Cape Verde penalty area, and Eleia Vieira ended up sending the ball into her own net to make it 2-0 in the 54th minute.

The second goal gave Ghana the composure it needed to control the closing stages and made any possibility of a comeback even more difficult for the debutants.

Björkegren turned to his bench and made several changes to maintain the intensity, protect the lead, and ensure his team began the tournament without conceding a goal.