Ghana and Cameroon Win Their Openers in WAFCON 2026

Ghana and Cameroon started strong in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Wednesday. They defeated Cape Verde and Mali respectively, taking early control of Group D.

The Black Queens won 2-0 against tournament newcomers Cape Verde in Casablanca. Meanwhile, the Indomitable Lionesses edged past Mali with a 2-1 victory, thanks to two goals from Ngah Manga.

These wins put Ghana and Cameroon level on three points each, setting up an exciting clash between the two teams in the next round of group matches.

Ghana's Strong Start Against Cape Verde

Ghana kicked off their campaign for continental glory with a solid 2-0 win over Cape Verde, who were playing in their first tournament.

Doris Boaduwaa quickly put Ghana in front just six minutes into the match. Defender Portia Boakye made a great pass to Boaduwaa, who finished calmly to give Ghana a fantastic start.

With this early lead, Ghana controlled the game and settled into a smooth rhythm against Cape Verde. The debuting team struggled to create chances, despite their efforts.

Ghana showed their experience in the tournament by managing possession well. They have now kept a perfect record against first-time WAFCON teams, never losing to any.

Own Goal Seals the Win

Cape Verde came back for the second half looking to respond. But Ghana ended the game nine minutes after the restart.

A dangerous attack caused confusion in the Cape Verde penalty area. Defender Eleia Vieira accidentally scored an own goal in the 54th minute, doubling Ghana's lead.

This own goal gave the Black Queens the space they needed. Head coach Kim Lars Björkegren rotated his squad while keeping control of the game.

In the final minutes, Ghana made substitutions to maintain their lead and secure a clean sheet. Cape Verde’s night got worse when Klaydiana Borges received a red card, leaving them with 10 players for their historic first WAFCON match.

Despite the loss, reaching the tournament is a big win for Cape Verde, following a great qualification campaign, including a comeback against Mali.

For Ghana, this victory sets them up well as they aim to improve on their bronze medal from the last tournament.

Ngah Manga Leads Cameroon Past Mali

In another match in Casablanca, Ngah Manga led Cameroon to a 2-1 win over Mali in a thrilling Group D game.

This victory continues Cameroon’s strong record against Mali, with four wins and one draw in their last five meetings.

This was the sixth time both teams faced each other at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, and it was fiercely competitive again. Cameroon struck first in the 14th minute with a goal from Ngah Manga. The striker skillfully controlled a high pass and finished well at the near post.

Mali Fights Back, But Cameroon Prevails

Mali didn’t let the early goal shake them. They worked their way back into the game. Their efforts paid off in the 30th minute when goalkeeper Michaely Bihina fouled Aïssata Traoré in the box.

The referee awarded a penalty, and Traoré scored to level the match. The first half ended with both teams creating chances but no more goals.

After the break, both teams pushed for the next goal. In the 72nd minute, Cameroon were awarded a penalty after a VAR review. Ngah Manga stepped up and scored again, restoring Cameroon’s lead.

Mali pushed forward in search of another equalizer, but Cameroon defended well. Mali’s last chance came in the dying seconds when substitute Fatoumata Diarra had a shot. But it lacked power, and Bihina saved it easily to secure the win.

Big Match Ahead

This win continues Cameroon’s success in their favorite WAFCON matchups. The Indomitable Lionesses are competing in their 13th tournament, having played in every edition since 1998 except for the last one.

Next, all eyes are on Sunday’s exciting Group D match between Ghana and Cameroon. Both teams want to build on their winning starts in what should be an amazing game. Meanwhile, Mali and Cape Verde will be looking for their first points to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.