Ghana’s Black Queens have been knocked out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after Malawi came from behind to win their quarter-final 2-1 in Rabat.
The defeat ends Ghana’s hopes of lifting the tournament, while Malawi have reached the WAFCON semi-finals for the first time in their history.
Ghana appeared to have taken control when Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah put the Black Queens ahead in the 70th minute. Their advantage was short-lived, though, with Malawi forward Temwa Chawinga equalising five minutes later.
That response shifted the momentum towards the debutants, who grew in confidence as the match progressed. Ghana found it increasingly difficult to regain control after the break, while Malawi began to create a more consistent threat.
Malawi completed their comeback in the 79th minute. Rose Kadzere scored the decisive goal to put the debutants in front and leave Ghana facing an uphill battle in the closing stages.
The Black Queens pressed for a second goal and an equaliser, but Malawi held firm. A determined defensive effort prevented Ghana from finding a way through as the final whistle confirmed a historic result for the debutants.
For Malawi, the victory secures a place in the 2026 WAFCON semi-finals for the first time. Their progress represents a landmark moment in the competition, while Ghana’s campaign comes to an end at the quarter-final stage.
The result also has consequences beyond the continental tournament. Ghana have missed out on automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil as a result of their quarter-final defeat.
There is still a route to the global tournament available to the Black Queens. Ghana will take part in the intercontinental play-offs, where they will face Cote d’Ivoire for a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Malawi’s comeback therefore delivers two significant outcomes: a first appearance in the WAFCON semi-finals and the elimination of one of the tournament’s established sides. Ghana, meanwhile, must now regroup for the play-off meeting with Cote d’Ivoire, with World Cup qualification still within reach despite their disappointment in Rabat.
