Black Queens ready for WAFCON 2026

Ghana have intensified preparations for the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after head coach Kim Lars Björkegren unveiled a strong provisional Black Queens squad for the tournament in Morocco.

The Swedish tactician has blended experienced internationals, foreign-based professionals and outstanding performers from the Ghana Women’s Premier League as the Black Queens seek to make a successful return to Africa’s biggest women’s football competition.

Leading the squad is captain Portia Boakye, who is joined by several experienced campaigners, including Grace Asantewaa, Jennifer Cudjoe, Evelyn Badu, Princella Adubea, Doris Boaduwaa, Stella Nyamekye and Alice Kusi. The core of experienced players is expected to provide leadership and stability as Ghana targets a deep run in the tournament.

Coach Björkegren’s selection also reflects his confidence in home-grown talent, with Ghana Women’s Premier League stars Cynthia Konlan Fiindib of FC Samartex Ladies, Osman Huzeima of Jonina Ladies and Ajegipina Zakaria of Ampem Darkoa Ladies earning places in the provisional squad.

Their inclusion underlines the technical team’s commitment to rewarding consistent performances in the domestic league while strengthening competition for places in the final squad.

Since taking charge of the Black Queens, Björkegren has overseen a gradual rebuilding process aimed at restoring Ghana as one of Africa’s leading women’s football nations.

His latest squad selection highlights a balance between experienced campaigners capable of guiding the team and emerging talents eager to make their mark on the continental stage.

In midfield, the Black Queens will rely on the creativity and experience of Grace Asantewaa, Jennifer Cudjoe, Evelyn Badu and Alice Kusi, while the attacking department boasts proven goalscorers such as Princella Adubea, Doris Boaduwaa and Stella Nyamekye.

Boaduwaa, in particular, is expected to play a key role after her impressive performances during the qualification campaign.

Ghana face a challenging Group D assignment at the tournament, where they will come up against Cape Verde, Cameroon and Mali.

The Black Queens will begin their campaign against tournament debutants Cape Verde on July 29 before facing Cameroon on August 2 and concluding the group phase against Mali on August 6.

All three group matches will be played at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca, with Ghana aiming to secure one of the qualification spots for the knockout stage.

The group promises to be one of the most competitive at the tournament. Cameroon enter the competition with a rich WAFCON pedigree, Mali remain one of the continent’s strongest emerging sides, while Cape Verde will be eager to make a statement in their maiden appearance.