Ghana’s Black Queens endured a second-half collapse to lose 4-0 against Japan in a friendly match at the Kanazawa Go Go Curry Stadium on Saturday.
Despite a promising start, the Queens struggled to maintain their composure after captain Portia Boakye, was sent off for a professional foul, leaving her team with 10 players.
The Black Queens managed to hold Japan to a goalless draw by halftime, showing resilience despite their numerical disadvantage.
However, the second half saw Japan dominate the game, exploiting the gaps left by Boakye’s absence.
Japan took the lead seven minutes into the second half when Tanaka Mina scored after being played through on goal.
Chelsea youngster Maika Hamano doubled the lead, capitalizing on a set piece to find the net from the far post.
Aoba Fujino and Riko Ueki added the third and fourth goals, respectively, cementing Japan’s superiority.
The match served as a preparation for the Japanese side ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games.
For Ghana’s coach, Nora Häuptle, the game provided valuable lessons for the team’s ongoing rebuilding process.
