Ghana’s Black Queens recorded their first defeat at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after losing 1-0 to Cameroon in their second Group D fixture on Sunday.
A first-half penalty by Marie Gisele Ngah Manga was enough to secure victory for Cameroon. The spot-kick was awarded following a lengthy Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review after the ball made contact with Benedicte Simon’s hand. Manga converted the penalty, sending Ghanaian goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan the wrong way to give Cameroon the lead.
Ghana attempted to respond, with Doris Boaduwaa coming close to equalizing from close range, but her effort was saved by the Cameroonian goalkeeper. Cameroon maintained control of possession for most of the first half, holding on to their 1-0 advantage until the interval.
Following the break, Ghana head coach Kim Llars Björkegren introduced Evelyn Badu in a bid to change the game. The Black Queens created further opportunities through Portia Boakye and Badu. Badu eventually found the net, but the goal was disallowed for an offside during the build-up play.
Despite late pressure, Ghana could not find an equalizer before the final whistle. The Black Queens will now play Mali in their final group match on August 6, where a victory will secure their qualification to the next round of the tournament.