WAFCON 2026: Josephine Bonsu Steals the Show as Ghana Sink Cape Verde
Josephine Bonsu was named Woman of the Match after inspiring Ghana to a commanding 2-0 victory over Women’s Africa Cup of Nations debutants Cape Verde in their opening Group D fixture on Wednesday.
The Carl Zeiss Jena defender produced a composed display at the heart of the Black Queens’ defence, helping Kim Lars Björkegren’s side secure a clean sheet and an ideal start to their WAFCON 2026 campaign.
Ghana struck early through Doris Boaduwaa before Cape Verde defender Eleia Vieira turned the ball into her own net in the second half, capping a dominant performance that handed the Black Queens all three points.
Bonsu was instrumental throughout, winning aerial duels, snuffing out Cape Verde’s attacks and calmly playing out from the back as Ghana controlled proceedings at both ends of the pitch.
The award capped another impressive outing for the Germany-born defender, who has quickly established herself as one of the first names on Björkegren’s teamsheet since committing to the Black Queens. Her assured performances have added defensive steel to a Ghana side determined to end its long wait for a first continental crown.
Ghana’s victory puts them in a strong early position in Group D ahead of a crucial meeting with Cameroon, where a positive result could significantly boost their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
With seven third-place finishes but no Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title to their name, the Black Queens have arrived in Morocco with renewed belief. If Bonsu’s commanding performance is any indication, Ghana have laid down an early marker in their bid to challenge for the trophy.
