In a resounding display of skill and determination, the Black Queens soared to a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in the first leg of the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifier held on Friday.

The momentum was set early in the match, with a precisely converted penalty kick by Doris Boaduwaa in the 44th minute, propelling the Black Queens to a well-deserved lead against the Amazons at Stade de L’Amiti in Cotonou.

The Queens came tantalizingly close to an early goal when Portia Boakye unleashed a powerful shot in the 3rd minute, but their efforts were thwarted by the remarkable skills of Benin goalkeeper Alassane Sowiaratou.

In the 68th minute, Clotoe Valentine made a valiant effort to level the playing field, only to be denied by an outstanding save from Cynthia Konlan.

Gifty Assifuah, a substitute for the Black Queens, capitalized on a defensive lapse to secure the team’s second goal of the evening, further solidifying their lead. And they weren’t done yet, as Assifuah went on to add a third goal in the 78th minute.

Yolande Gnanmi of Benin had a moment of brilliance in the final quarter of the game, nearly reducing the deficit, but her effort was ruled offside.

The final score confirms that the Black Queens maintain a perfect record in the ongoing qualifiers, and their performance is a testament to their dedication and prowess on the field.

The excitement and anticipation continue to build as we look forward to the reverse fixture, set to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. The Black Queens have certainly set the stage for an exciting journey towards the Paris 2024 Olympics.