WAFCON 2024: Four things we learnt from Black Queens defeat to South Africa
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Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah in action during Ghana’s WAFCON 2024 opener against South Africa.
WAFCON 2024: Four Key Takeaways from Ghana’s Loss to South Africa
Black Queens begin campaign with 2-0 defeat, but positives emerge
Ghana’s Black Queens made a long-awaited return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a seven-year absence, but their Group C opener ended in a 2-0 defeat to defending champions South Africa on Monday, July 7.
Despite the loss, the match at Stade Amadou Gon Coulibaly in Korhogo, Ivory Coast, revealed both concerns and promising signs for Ghana’s chances in the tournament.
1. Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah Shows Promise
Making her debut in a major tournament for Ghana, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah was one of the standout performers. The England-born midfielder was energetic in midfield, breaking down attacks and finding space on the right flank. Her weaker-footed strike marked Ghana’s first shot on target.
If the Black Queens are to bounce back, coach Kim Björkegren must find a way to get Chantelle more involved in the final third, where Ghana has struggled to convert chances.
2. No Jennifer Cudjoe, No Party
The absence of Jennifer Cudjoe, who was serving a suspension, was glaring in the midfield. Without her leadership and composure, Ghana’s midfield lacked the control and structure needed to manage a high-pressure game against South Africa.
Though Wasiima Mohammed and Grace Asantewaa gave their all, the chemistry and balance were not the same. Cudjoe’s return for the next matches could be a game-changer for the team.
3. Final Third Decisions Continue to Hurt
Ghana’s early aggression pushed South Africa deep in their own half, but poor decision-making in the final third meant the Black Queens couldn’t capitalise. Players like Doris Boaduwaa, Alice Kusi, and Evelyn Badu were all guilty of misjudged passes or missed opportunities.
Coach Björkegren and his technical team must sharpen the team’s efficiency in front of goal if Ghana hopes to qualify from the group.
4. Doris Boaduwaa Needs Positional Clarity
Doris Boaduwaa is a talented player known for her bursts from wide areas. However, being deployed as a central striker did not suit her strengths. She looked isolated and struggled to make an impact. Her natural style thrives on movement, space, and having the ball at her feet — traits better suited to a wide role.
If Ghana hopes to unlock her full potential, they may need to rethink her positioning going forward.
What’s Next?
Ghana will face Mali and Tanzania in their remaining Group C matches, and with Cudjoe expected to return, the team will aim to regroup and push for a place in the knockout stages.
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