The Black Queens of Ghana delivered a spirited second-half performance in their opening match against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, the reigning champions of the tournament, despite falling to a 2-0 defeat.

The match, which drew significant attention as a clash between two of Africa’s top women’s football sides, saw South Africa capitalize on their early chances to establish a two-goal lead by halftime.

However, the second half belonged largely to the Black Queens, who came out with renewed energy and dominated play.

The introduction of striker Princella Adubea and other substitutes injected pace and creativity into Ghana’s attack, leading to a series of missed goal-scoring opportunities that could have changed the game’s outcome.

Though the Queens were unable to find the back of the net, their performance drew praise from fans and analysts alike, with many highlighting their aggressive pressing and improved coordination.

Ghana will now look to build on the positives from this match as they prepare for their next group fixture, with hopes of advancing in the tournament still alive.