Ghana and Cameroon Win Big at Women's Africa Cup

Ghana and Cameroon kicked off their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations with victories that showcased why they're considered among Africa's football elite.

Ghana's Black Queens wasted no time against tournament newcomers Cape Verde, with Doris Boaduwaa scoring just six minutes into the match in Casablanca. The early goal set the tone for a confident performance from the four-time finalists, who used their experience to control the game from start to finish.

The second half brought more good fortune for Ghana when Cape Verde defender Eleia Vieira accidentally scored an own goal in the 54th minute. The 2-0 lead gave Ghana's coach the freedom to rotate players and keep his squad fresh for tougher matches ahead.

For Cape Verde, simply qualifying for their first-ever Women's Africa Cup represents a historic achievement for women's football in the island nation. While the loss stung, their qualification journey included an impressive comeback against Mali that will be remembered for years.

Across town in Casablanca, Cameroon's Ngah Manga delivered a brilliant two-goal performance to lead her team past Mali 2-1. The Galatasaray forward opened scoring in the 14th minute with a beautiful chest control followed by a composed finish.

Mali responded with determination, earning a penalty in the 30th minute after their striker was brought down in the box. Aïssata Traoré stepped up and calmly converted to level the score before halftime.

The decisive moment came in the 72nd minute when Cameroon earned a penalty following a VAR review. Manga confidently converted her second goal of the match, securing all three points for the Indomitable Lionesses.

The Ripple Effect

These opening victories mean more than just three points in the standings. Ghana and Cameroon now sit level atop Group D, guaranteeing their Sunday matchup will be must-watch television across the continent. The winner will take a commanding position in the group and gain momentum heading into the knockout stages.

Both teams are chasing glory after disappointments in recent tournaments. Ghana claimed bronze at the last edition and wants to go further, while Cameroon missed the previous championship entirely after appearing in nearly every tournament since 1998.

The stage is set for a heavyweight clash that will capture the attention of football fans across Africa and showcase the rising quality of women's football on the continent.