Head coach of the Black Queens of Ghana, Kim Lars Bjorkegren, has admitted that his team faces an uphill task as they prepare to take on host nation Morocco in the semi-final of the ongoing 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Ghana booked their spot in the final four of the prestigious continental competition following a dramatic penalty shootout win over Algeria on Saturday night. The quarter-final clash had ended in a stalemate, forcing the tie into a shootout where the Black Queens held their nerve to advance.
However, while the victory was celebrated, the journey ahead is nothing short of daunting. Speaking in his post-match interview, Coach Bjorkegren expressed mixed emotions—joy over the qualification but concern about the tight schedule and the travel logistics involved before the semi-final clash.
“Here and now, we need to enjoy the victory and celebrate a little bit tonight,” said the Swedish tactician. “But of course, it’s going to be tough to play the semi-final far away from here. I guess it’s going to be breakfast tomorrow, a little bit of recovery training and then the bus to Rabat. That’s probably going to take the whole day.”
A Race Against Time
The Black Queens now face a demanding turnaround time, with just two full days to recover, regroup and prepare for their semi-final match on Tuesday, July 22. The short interval, coupled with a long journey to Rabat, poses a significant challenge to the team’s recovery process.
“Then it’s just one day of recovery training in Rabat and then it’s game again. Of course, I wish that we had one or two more days, but that’s the life as a football player and a coach,” Bjorkegren continued.
“To mentally recover and for them, maybe more physical recovery and then be ready to do everything we can in the semi-final. Of course, it’s going to be a hard job for our medical team now to help the players to be as ready as possible.”
Morocco Await
The Black Queens will face a strong Moroccan side that has the advantage of playing at home in front of a passionate crowd. Morocco have grown into a formidable force in African women’s football, especially after their remarkable run to the final of the 2022 WAFCON, where they lost to South Africa.
With home support on their side and familiarity with the playing environment, Morocco will certainly be a tough opponent. For Ghana, the challenge lies not only in dealing with the opposition but also in navigating the fatigue and pressure of tournament football.
Coach Bjorkegren is aware of the magnitude of the task at hand but believes in the resilience and quality of his squad. The Swedish manager, who took over the Black Queens job in 2023, has overseen a transformation in the team’s style and mentality. The current WAFCON campaign has been marked by grit, determination, and tactical discipline—qualities that will be essential against Morocco.
A Journey of Redemption
The Black Queens are on a mission to return Ghana to the pinnacle of women’s football in Africa. Their last appearance in a WAFCON final was in 1998, and they have never won the competition despite reaching the final on three occasions (1998, 2002, and 2006).
This year’s squad, led by a blend of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters, has already made significant strides. Ghana emerged from the group stage unbeaten, defeating Tunisia and Zambia, and drawing with Mali. Their shootout win over Algeria in the quarter-finals only added to their growing reputation as serious contenders for the title.
Key players such as captain Elizabeth Addo, striker Princella Adubea, and goalkeeper Cynthia Findiib, who was instrumental in the penalty shootout, have all stepped up during crucial moments. The team’s success thus far is a testament to their growing chemistry and the vision implemented by Coach Bjorkegren.
Support and Belief
Back home, support is swelling for the Black Queens. The Ghana Football Association (GFA), sports ministry, and fans across the country have been vocal in their encouragement for the team. Many believe that this could be the year Ghana finally breaks the jinx and lifts the coveted trophy.
Speaking after the victory over Algeria, GFA President Kurt Okraku congratulated the team and urged them to remain focused. “The nation is proud of the Black Queens. We believe in your abilities and your determination. Stay focused, stay united, and give your best in the semi-final,” he stated.
The GFA has reportedly made arrangements to ensure smooth logistics for the team’s movement to Rabat and to provide medical and psychological support ahead of the clash.
Looking Ahead
With the semi-final fixture fast approaching, the Black Queens have little time to dwell on their quarter-final heroics. Coach Bjorkegren and his technical team are expected to hold tactical sessions on Sunday evening and Monday in Rabat to prepare for the Moroccan challenge.
The winner of the semi-final clash will progress to the WAFCON final, where they will meet either Nigeria or South Africa, who face off in the other semi-final. Ghana’s aim is not only to secure a spot in the final but also to qualify for the 2025 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which comes with a top-three finish in this tournament.
Final Thoughts
As the Black Queens prepare for one of their biggest matches in recent history, the focus will be on recovery, strategy, and unity. Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s belief in his players is unwavering, and the squad will hope to translate that confidence into a winning performance in Rabat.
Tuesday’s semi-final is more than just a football match—it’s a statement opportunity for Ghanaian women’s football. A win against the hosts would not only bring the Black Queens closer to continental glory but also inspire a new generation of female athletes across the country.
