Ghana Football Association president Kurt Edwin Simeon Okraku has urged Ghanaians at home and abroad to throw their weight behind the Black Queens as they begin their bid for a first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco.
The national women’s team open their Group D campaign against Cape Verde, who are making their tournament debut, at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca on Wednesday, 29 July. The match signals the start of Ghana’s latest attempt to turn years of near-misses into a long-awaited WAFCON triumph.
Speaking ahead of the opener, Okraku delivered a motivational address to the squad and issued a nationwide appeal for unified backing throughout the competition.
“As our beloved Black Queens prepare to compete at the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, I call on all Ghanaians, both at home and abroad, to unite behind this outstanding team as they proudly represent our nation,” Okraku said.
Confidence built on recent progress
Okraku underlined his belief that Ghana can compete with the strongest sides on the continent, pointing to the bronze medal secured at the previous WAFCON as evidence of a team on an upward trajectory.
“The Black Queens head into the tournament with renewed confidence and ambition following their impressive bronze-medal finish at the last edition,” he noted, framing that performance as a foundation for a more ambitious push this time.
Ghana’s consistent presence at the latter stages of the competition in recent years has sharpened expectations, with players and officials alike aware that the next step is to finally lift the trophy.
World Cup qualification also on the line
Beyond the chase for continental silverware, Okraku stressed that the tournament doubles as a critical pathway to the global stage, with places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil also at stake.
“They now have an opportunity not only to challenge for continental honours but also to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and return Ghana to the pinnacle of women’s football,” he added.
That dual objective – ending Ghana’s wait for a WAFCON title and reclaiming a place at the women’s World Cup – has become central to the Black Queens’ mission in Morocco.
Call for nationwide backing
The GFA president widened his appeal beyond match-going fans, calling on every sector connected to the game to show consistent backing for the team over the coming weeks.
“I urge all Ghanaiansour supporters, the media, corporate partners and every stakeholderto stand firmly behind the team with unwavering encouragement and belief. Let us celebrate their commitment, appreciate their sacrifices and inspire them throughout their journey,” he stated.
Okraku emphasised that vocal and visible support can play a decisive role in sustaining the team’s momentum as they navigate what is expected to be a highly competitive tournament.
Message to the dressing room
Turning directly to the players, Okraku challenged the Black Queens to approach the competition with conviction and resilience, insisting they carry the hopes of an entire nation.
“To the Black Queens, the entire nation is behind you. Play with courage, pride and determination, and go out there to make Ghana proud,” he charged.
The message comes as the squad prepare for a demanding group schedule in Casablanca, where they will face a mix of emerging and established African opposition.
Group D schedule in focus
After their opening game against Cape Verde, the Black Queens continue their Group D fixtures against Cameroon on Sunday, 2 August, before concluding the group stage with a match against Mali on Thursday, 6 August.
Ghana enter the tournament buoyed by their bronze-medal showing at the last WAFCON, which has raised expectations among fans and officials that the team can progress even further this time.
With millions of Ghanaians watching and a talented group determined to make history, the Black Queens will aim to convert renewed optimism into results on the pitch – and, in the process, end the country’s long pursuit of a WAFCON crown while securing a return to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027.
