Ghana’s Black Queens fell 2–0 to England in Tuesday night’s international friendly at St. Mary’s Stadium in Southampton, but the performance offered encouraging signs as the team continued its rebuild against one of the world’s top sides.
The match was the first meeting between the two nations at senior women’s level and formed part of Ghana’s preparations for next year’s competitive fixtures.
Ghana conceded six minutes in, when England midfielder Lucia Kendall punished a failed clearance to score from close range. It was an early blow for a Ghana side that had set up compactly and hoped to frustrate the European champions.
After the opener, England controlled possession for long stretches, pinning Ghana deep and forcing repeated defensive interventions. But the Black Queens remained disciplined, with goalkeeper Cynthia Findib and her back line producing a number of timely stops. England struck the woodwork more than once, but Ghana avoided further damage in the first half through sheer organisation and hard running.
Ghana showed more personality after the interval. The team pushed higher at moments, especially through bursts from the wings, and tried to exploit England’s high defensive line on the break. The final pass often let them down, but there were glimpses of the speed and directness that have become hallmarks of recent performances.
Coach Kim Björkegren has repeatedly stressed the need for the team to gain experience against high-calibre opponents. Tuesday’s game underlined that point, with the Black Queens forced to manage long spells without the ball while maintaining structure.
The match seemed set to end 1–0 until deep in stoppage time, when a VAR review penalised Ghana for handball in the box. England striker Alessia Russo converted the penalty to seal a 2–0 win.
Despite the late concession, the Ghana bench applauded the players at full-time, recognising the character shown against opponents who lifted the European title only months ago.
For the Black Queens, the scoreline told only part of the story. The team’s ability to limit England’s chances from open play, despite constant pressure, will be viewed as a step forward. The match also offered several players their first exposure to a full-capacity European stadium atmosphere and the pace of a top-tier side.
Björkegren said the performance “showed fight, commitment and a willingness to grow,” adding that the experience “will serve the team well” as Ghana works toward qualification campaigns in 2026.
The Black Queens return to camp later this month to review the match and continue preparations for next year’s fixtures, with the technical team expected to place further focus on transitions and end-product in attack.
