Ghana’s Black Queens delivered a powerful second-half comeback to defeat Benin Republic 4-2 in a WAFCON warm-up match, firing a strong warning ahead of their much-anticipated clash with Nigeria. The friendly, held in Morocco, served as a high-intensity preparation for both teams before next month’s tournament.
Despite getting off to a flying start with Nina Norshie finding the net in the fourth minute, Ghana soon found themselves trailing as Benin responded with two goals to flip the script.
The Black Queens looked out of rhythm, largely due to several key players being rested by coach Kim Lars. In the first half, striker Doris Boaduwaa missed a penalty and struck the woodwork twice, summing up a frustrating opening 45 minutes for the Ghanaians.
The second half, however, saw a complete turnaround. Alice Kusi equalized in the 55th minute, and the Ghanaians never looked back. Susan Duah fired Ghana into the lead in the 70th minute, before Chantelle B. Hlorkah sealed the win with a brilliant finish eleven minutes from time. The dominant finish not only secured the win but boosted team morale just days before facing their long-standing rivals.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Super Falcons have settled into Casablanca following a goalless yet spirited draw against Portugal in Lisbon.
The 22-player squad arrived in Morocco on Wednesday, featuring international stars such as Asisat Oshoala and Folashade Ijamilusi. Monday’s friendly saw impressive performances from key players including Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal, defender Shukurat Oladipo, and veteran forward Francisca Ordega.
The clash between Ghana and Nigeria, set for June 29, will be the final test for both sides before launching their Women Africa Cup of Nations campaigns. The Super Falcons, nine-time continental champions, will begin their group stage matches on July 6 against Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, followed by fixtures against Botswana and Algeria in Group B.
Since WAFCON’s launch in 1998, Nigeria has never failed to reach the semi-finals, making them the clear team to beat. Ghana, on the other hand, have twice reached the final, both times losing to Nigeria. Now, the Black Queens are hoping to break free from that legacy and build serious momentum with Sunday’s crucial friendly.
For Ghana, Sunday’s match is more than just preparation—it’s a chance to prove they’re finally ready to challenge for their first WAFCON title and no longer be overshadowed by their Nigerian counterparts.