Defending champions South Africa sent a clear statement of intent in their opening match of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), defeating Ghana’s Black Queens 2-0 in a sharp and clinical performance at the Stade Municipal d’Oujda.
Early goals from Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe inside the first 35 minutes sealed the win for Banyana Banyana, who controlled much of the contest and showed why they remain one of the favourites in this year’s expanded 12-team tournament.
🟡 South Africa Show Intent Early
Coach Desiree Ellis‘ side looked well-drilled and confident from kickoff, immediately taking the initiative against a Ghana side making its return to WAFCON after missing the 2022 edition.
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Their dominance paid off in the 28th minute when a VAR check awarded a penalty for a foul on Noxolo Cesane. Motlhalo stepped up and coolly converted from the spot, placing her shot low into the bottom corner past goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan.
Just six minutes later, the lead was doubled. Right-back Lebohang Ramalepe initiated a swift move forward and picked out Seoposenwe, who timed her run perfectly before slotting the ball into the far corner with clinical precision.
🔴 Ghana Fail to Capitalise on Second-Half Chances
The Black Queens, under coach Nora Häuptle, struggled to contain South Africa’s rhythm in the first half but showed more urgency after the break. Evelyn Badu and Alice Kusi both came close, striking the crossbar as Ghana tried to claw their way back.
However, South Africa’s goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was in fine form, making several saves to preserve the clean sheet. Substitutions including Hildah Magaia and Ronnel Donnelly helped Banyana Banyana maintain control and manage the tempo in the final stages.
📊 Group C Outlook
This victory marks South Africa’s third straight win in WAFCON opening matches, following famous wins over Nigeria in both 2018 and 2022. They now top Group C, which also includes DR Congo and Burkina Faso.
For Ghana, the loss means they must quickly regroup ahead of their crucial second group game. Despite flashes of promise, the Black Queens will need to improve their finishing if they hope to progress to the knockout rounds.
Last Updated on April 7, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
