Encouragement for the Black Queens
President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has issued a message of encouragement to the Black Queens, urging the team to perform with pride and confidence as they begin their 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) journey. The team is scheduled to play their Group D opening match against Cape Verde today. President Simeon-Okraku visited the team’s camp in Morocco to inspire both the players and technical staff ahead of the competition.
Addressing the squad, President Simeon-Okraku conveyed his confidence in their quality and preparation. He assured the players that they have the full support of the nation, stating, “You have earned the right to be here through hard work, sacrifice and commitment. Now is the time to show Africa the character of the Black Queens. Believe in yourselves because an entire nation believes in you.”
The CAF 2nd Vice President encouraged the players to approach the tournament with unity and courage, highlighting the privilege of representing the nation. He added, “When you wear this jersey, you represent more than yourselves. You represent every young girl who dreams of playing for Ghana and every Ghanaian who will proudly stand behind you. Play with heart and never stop believing.”
President Simeon-Okraku emphasized the importance of a strong performance in their initial fixture, describing it as an opportunity to establish the tone for their campaign. He advised the team to “Go onto that pitch with confidence, fight for every ball, trust one another and leave everything on the field. If you do that, the results will follow.” He also reiterated the GFA’s commitment to providing ongoing support for the team’s success.
Coach Bjorkegren’s Strategy and Expectations
Black Queens coach, Kim Lars Bjorkegren, outlined a detailed plan for the team’s tournament run during a pre-match press conference in Casablanca. He stated the team has three main objectives: qualifying from the group stage, winning the quarter-finals to secure a World Cup spot, and ultimately winning the 2026 WAFCON.
The goal of reaching the semi-finals is particularly significant for Ghanaian women’s football, as it would automatically qualify them for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The Black Queens have not participated in the World Cup since 2007.
Bjorkegren, who was appointed in September 2024, reflected on the team’s progress under his leadership. He mentioned their bronze medal finish at the previous WAFCON in 2024, also held in Morocco, where they defeated South Africa in the third-place playoff. Since then, the team has faced stronger opposition, including a victory over Russia and a competitive match against England in a December friendly.
Preparations for the tournament have included a training camp in Morocco and warm-up matches, culminating in a 4-0 win against Malawi. Looking ahead to the opening match, the coach acknowledged that Cape Verde, making their first WAFCON appearance, should not be underestimated. He expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness, stating, “We expect a tough game but we believe in ourselves and if we do our things we can start the tournament with a win. At least that’s our goal and target.”
Bjorkegren also described the team’s tactical approach, indicating that the Black Queens will play an attacking style. He noted, “We will see a Black Queens team that will go for the attack. I will say we are the best high pressing team in Africa. I know we have a strong defence. I really believe in this group of girls. They will do everything to win the game.”
The 26-player squad, led by captain Portia Boakye, combines experienced players with emerging talents from the Ghana Women’s Premier League and various clubs across Europe. Ghana will commence their WAFCON campaign against Cape Verde at 17:00 GMT at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca.
Following their opening match, the Black Queens are scheduled to face five-time champions Cameroon on Saturday, August 2, and will conclude their group stage matches against Mali on Thursday, August 6.
Source: ghanafa.org
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