Ghana’s Black Queens recorded a 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast in an international friendly as preparations intensified for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The closely contested encounter saw both sides create scoring opportunities, but neither team was able to break the deadlock during the opening half. Ghana returned after the break with greater attacking intent and eventually found the breakthrough in the 75th minute.

Forward Sharon Sampson emerged as the match winner, calmly finishing to hand the Black Queens a deserved lead and ultimately secure victory for the hosts.

The result provides a timely confidence boost for head coach Kim Lars Björkegren and his squad as they continue fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the continental showpiece. The performance also highlighted the team’s defensive discipline, with the Black Queens successfully keeping a clean sheet against a competitive Ivorian side.

Ghana will be aiming to build on the victory in their remaining preparations before the start of the 2026 WAFCON tournament.