The Lionesses of England have ended their 2025 campaign on a high, defeating Ghana’s Black Queens 2-0 in an international friendly at St Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
The match marked the first-ever meeting between the two sides.
Lucia Kendall opened the scoring in the sixth minute, netting her first senior international goal after pouncing on a loose ball.
England dominated possession, hitting the woodwork four times, but Ghana goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan made a series of crucial saves to keep the Black Queens in the game.
Ghana’s defense, led by captain Portia Boakye, Susan Ama Duah, Comfort Yeboah, and debutant Benedicte Simon, remained composed under pressure.
Midfielders Jennifer Cudjoe, Grace Asantewaa, and Stella Nyamekye worked tirelessly to disrupt England’s rhythm, while the attacking trio of Alice Kusi, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Doris Boaduwaa struggled to create clear-cut chances.
England captain Alessia Russo added a late penalty in the 95th minute, awarded after a handball by Yeboah, to secure the win.
Kendall described her goal as a “special moment,” while Russo praised Ghana for providing a strong test against a different playing style.
The result keeps England unbeaten against African teams since 2004.
Ghana Black Queens gained valuable experience ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while the Lionesses of England prepare for their 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification campaign.
