WAFCON 2026: Cynthia Konlan backs Gahna to carry Cape Verde momentum into Cameroon showdown

Black Queens goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan believes Ghana’s opening victory over Cape Verde has provided the perfect motivation ahead of their crucial Group D clash against Cameroon at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Ghana kicked off their campaign with a convincing 2-0 win over the tournament debutants on Wednesday, thanks to an early strike from Doris Boaduwaa and a second-half own goal by Cape Verde defender Eleia Vieira.

The Samartex goalkeeper played an important role in preserving the clean sheet, producing a composed display whenever Cape Verde threatened as the Black Queens secured three valuable points in their bid to qualify for the knockout stage.

Reflecting on the result, the goalkeeper said the victory has boosted the team’s confidence heading into what is expected to be a much tougher contest against Cameroon.

“Overall, it was a good game for us. It’s a very big motivation for us. Every team wants to win their first game because it opens more doors for every team, and this means a lot to us. It gives us the opportunity to focus more on our next game.”

The Black Queens bounced back from the disappointment of losing their opening fixture at the previous WAFCON tournament by producing a disciplined performance to defeat Cape Verde.

The victory also maintained Ghana’s unbeaten record against tournament debutants and temporarily moved the four-time finalists to the top of Group D.

Coach Kim Lars Björkegren’s side will now turn their attention to Cameroon on August 2, knowing another positive result would significantly strengthen their hopes of reaching the semi-finals and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.