The England Lionesses concluded 2025 with a 2-0 victory against Ghana’s Black Queens in an international friendly at St Mary’s Stadium on Tuesday. Lucia Kendall opened the scoring early in the 6th minute, while Alessia Russo added a penalty in the 95th minute to secure the win.
This match marked the inaugural encounter between the two sides, with England showcasing dominance in possession and creating numerous scoring chances. The win extends England’s unbeaten streak against African teams, their last defeat dating back to 2004 when they lost 3-0 to Nigeria.
Ghana’s coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren started goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan Fiindib, with captain Portia Boakye and Susan Ama Duah anchoring the defense. Benedicte Simon made her debut, joining the backline alongside Comfort Yeboah and Duah. The midfield was bolstered by the efforts of Jennifer Cudjoe, Stella Nyamekye, and Grace Asantewaa, while Alice Kusi, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Doris Boaduwaa led the attack.
After the match, Kendall expressed her excitement about scoring her first senior international goal, saying, “It felt like it was written for me to score today.” England captain Alessia Russo praised Ghana’s challenge, saying, “Ghana provided the type of test we wanted.” This friendly wrapped up England’s year, as they now shift focus to their qualifying campaign for the 2027 World Cup, while Ghana prepares for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
SOURCE: GHANAFA.ORG
