Ghana’s Black Queens must win their final group match to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations alive after losing 1-0 to Cameroon on Sunday.
The narrow defeat came in Ghana’s second Group D match, with a first-half penalty proving enough to give Cameroon all three points. Despite controlling long periods of the opening exchanges, the Black Queens were unable to turn their possession into a goal.
Ghana began the match positively and enjoyed sustained spells with the ball. They looked composed during the early stages and were able to establish a level of control in the game. However, Cameroon broke the deadlock before half-time when they converted a penalty.
The setback forced Ghana to increase the intensity of their performance after the interval. Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s side pushed higher up the pitch and searched persistently for an equaliser, creating several promising opportunities in the process.
Cameroon’s defence, however, remained resolute. The Black Queens were unable to find the decisive touch needed to breach a backline that resisted Ghana’s pressure throughout the second half.
Ghana continued to attack until the final whistle, refusing to surrender despite falling behind. They also maintained their defensive organisation, ensuring that the match remained within reach and that Cameroon were unable to add to their advantage.
The one-goal margin meant the Black Queens remained in contention for a result until the closing stages. Cameroon, though, held firm to protect their lead and claim the full three points.
The outcome leaves Ghana facing a must-win final group fixture as they attempt to secure a place in the knockout stage. The match is referred to as the final Group C fixture in the original report, although the defeat was recorded as Ghana’s second Group D match.
With no further opportunity to recover points from this game, the Black Queens must now respond in their final group outing. Their defeat to Cameroon has made qualification dependent on the result of that match, with victory required if Ghana are to keep their tournament campaign alive.
Bjorkegren’s team showed attacking intent after the break and continued to apply pressure, but their inability to convert those chances left them empty-handed. Cameroon’s penalty was ultimately the difference between the sides in a contest Ghana had started with confidence.
The Black Queens will therefore go into their final group match knowing that anything less than a win could end their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage of the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
