Ghana’s Black Queens are out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a painful 2-1 quarter-final defeat to debutants Malawi in Rabat. The loss also ends Ghana’s chance of automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Ghana looked set for a strong night after Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah reacted quickest to a rebound to put the Black Queens ahead. The early goal lifted the Ghanaian side, but Malawi refused to panic and soon began to find their rhythm.
Temwa Chawinga brought Malawi level with a deflected effort after Ghana failed to clear their lines. The goal changed the mood of the contest, with Malawi growing in confidence while Ghana struggled to regain control.
Ghana had chances to retake the lead. Evelyn Badu headed just wide, while Doris Boaduwaa also tested the Malawian defence before the break.
The second half brought more frustration. Boaduwaa thought she had restored Ghana’s advantage, but the goal was ruled out for offside, while Jennifer Cudjoe’s header from a corner failed to trouble the goalkeeper.
Malawi then delivered the decisive blow in the 79th minute. Rose Kadzere finished after a strong spell of possession, leaving Ghana facing a desperate final push.
Cynthia Konlan kept the Black Queens alive with an important save from Chawinga. Ghana pressed late, but Malawi’s defence held firm to secure a historic semi-final place.
For Ghana, the defeat is more than a tournament exit. The Black Queens must now beat Côte d’Ivoire in a World Cup play-off in Casablanca to keep their 2027 qualification hopes alive.
Malawi, meanwhile, continue their remarkable debut campaign. They will face Algeria in the semi-finals on Wednesday, with a place in the WAFCON final now within reach.
For Ghana, Rabat brought a night of missed chances, growing pressure and a painful reminder that tournament football can turn in an instant.
