Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has showered praise on team captain Portia Boakye, describing her as a key figure in the national side’s progress since his appointment earlier this year.
In an exclusive interview with Joy Sports, the Swedish tactician said Boakye’s leadership both on and off the pitch has been instrumental in shaping the mentality and unity of the squad.
“She’s great. I couldn’t do it without her, I’m honest with that,” Björkegren said. “She’s leading the team off the pitch, especially on the pitch as well. The job she is doing when the cameras are not there is great. I am super happy to have her as a captain. She deserves the best.”
Boakye, one of the most experienced players in Ghana’s women’s football, recently joined TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of Congo after guiding the Black Queens to a bronze medal at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Her influence has been vital in the team’s resurgence, helping Ghana qualify for back-to-back WAFCON tournaments for the first time in a decade.
Björkegren, who took charge earlier this year, credited Boakye’s professionalism and passion for setting the tone in camp and inspiring younger players.
The veteran defender is now eyeing another milestone, leading Ghana to qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, a feat that would mark one of the greatest achievements in the nation’s women’s football history.
For the Black Queens, Portia Boakye’s leadership continues to be the heartbeat of a team on the rise.
