Japan’s Nadeshiko dominate Ghana’s Black Queens in 4-0 friendly victory

Japan’s Nadeshiko defeated Ghana’s Black Queens 4-0 in an intense international women’s friendly match played at the Kanazawa Go Go Curry Stadium on Saturday morning.

The Black Queens, who have secured their spot in the 2024 Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following their triumph over Namibia in the final qualifying round, utilized this friendly match as a preparation platform for the upcoming WAFCON tournament in Morocco next year.

Similarly, Japan viewed this match as an opportunity to gear up for the Olympics set to take place in Paris later this year.

The first half of the match was a closely contested affair, ending in a goalless draw. However, the introduction of Vivian Adjei in the 46th minute, replacing Doris Boaduwaa, marked a turning point for Ghana.

Japan broke the deadlock in the 51st minute with a goal from Mina Tanaka. Maika Hamano doubled their lead in the 65th minute, and Aoba Fujino extended it further just two minutes later. Ghana made a triple substitution, bringing in Grace Acheampong, Princess Marfo, and Princella Adubea for Grace Asantewaa, Anasthesia Achiaa, and Evelyn Badu, respectively.

However, Japan continued their dominance, with Riko Ueki scoring the fourth goal in the 80th minute to seal a comprehensive victory. Ghana is set to play another international friendly against an opponent yet to be named.