Kim Lars Bjorkegren marked his first win as head coach of the Black Queens with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Senegal in an international friendly on Saturday in Dakar.
The match, played at the Stade Lat Dior, was the first of a two-legged friendly series between the two nations.
Midfielder Evelyn Badu proved to be the difference-maker, scoring the only goal of the game in the 24th minute.
𝑭𝑼𝑳𝑳 𝑻𝑰𝑴𝑬 ||• A narrow win for us, plenty of lessons to take into our second game.
🇸🇳 0:1 🇬🇭 #ShineBlackQueens ✨#BringBackTheLove 💕 pic.twitter.com/hiYgNfkodE
— Ghana Women National Teams 🇬🇭 (@GhanaWNT) April 5, 2025
The decisive moment came when Princess Owusu made an impressive run down the left wing and delivered a pinpoint cross, which Badu headed home from close range.
Bjorkegren made two changes to the lineup that featured against Morocco during the last international break, as Ghana looked to build momentum under their new manager.
The Black Queens started brightly, creating early chances but were initially unable to break through Senegal’s defence. Their persistence paid off midway through the first half with Badu’s well-taken goal.
Ghana continued to push for a second goal after the break but suffered a setback when Anasthesia Achiaa was shown a second yellow card, reducing the team to 10 players.
Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan was called into action late in the game, making a crucial save by tipping a dangerous shot onto the crossbar before collecting the rebound to preserve Ghana’s lead.
Despite late pressure from Senegal, the Black Queens held firm to claim the win — their first since defeating Namibia in December 2023 during the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers.
The two sides will meet again on Tuesday, April 8, at the Stade Lat Dior to conclude the international doubleheader.