Black Queens proved too strong as they thrashed Rwanda in the first leg of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier (WAFCON) first-round tie at the Kigali Pele Stadium on Wednesday.
The scoring onslaught began early, with Doris Boaduwaa setting the tone by finding the back of the net in just the second minute of play. The early goal sent a clear message of intent from the Ghanaian side.
Evelyn Boadu wasted no time in doubling the lead, showcasing her scoring prowess with the second goal in the ninth minute.
Priscilla Adubea added to Rwanda’s misery with a beautifully executed header in the 28th minute, further extending Ghana’s advantage.
The second half continued in the same dominant fashion for the Black Queens. Alice Kusi added the fourth goal in the 53rd minute, while Evelyn Badu secured her second goal of the day, contributing to the team’s fifth.
Jennifer Cudjoe had an opportunity to join the scoresheet but missed a penalty in the 67th minute, a rare hiccup in an otherwise commanding performance.
However, the Black Queens’ offensive prowess was far from over. Anesthesia Adubea put the final nails in Rwanda’s coffin with a brace, scoring in the 76th and 81st minutes, solidifying the victory for Nora Hauptle’s side.
Nora Hauptle, who took over as head coach at the beginning of the year, has kept the Black Queens unbeaten during her tenure, and this remarkable win only adds to her growing legacy.
The stage is now set for the second leg of this exciting qualifier, with Ghana hosting Rwanda at the Accra Sports Stadium next week.
Ghana will be hoping to seal the victory at home as they eye a return to the continental showpiece having missed the previous edition which was held in Morocco.