GhanaWeb Feature by Benjamin Sackey
The Black Queens‘ performance at the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has won massive praise from Ghanaians.
Despite the low expectations from Ghanaians following their lackluster performance prior to the tournament, the team’s form surprised some football fans who are now thrilled.
Although they could not make it to the final to win the trophy, their brilliance won the hearts of many Ghanaians, including politicians and other prominent personalities.
This GhanaWeb Sports feature highlights the major takeaways from the team’s performances in the tournament
Bronze Medal
The Black Queens defeated South Africa on penalties following a 1-1 draw to clinch a bronze medal at the 2024 WAFCON.
The team dominated most aspects of the match but could not capitalise on their chances to seal victory during regular time.
During the penalty shootout, Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan displayed her heroics after saving two penalties, which eventually helped the team triumph with a 4-3 scoreline.
Winning the bronze medal earned them a cash prize of $350,000 and a medal.
Kim Lars’ Exploits
Head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren earned praise from football fans for being able to groom the ladies to understand his coaching philosophy within a short period.
The Swedish gaffer took over the team in January 2025 and trained them for about seven months, getting the best out of them.
His appointment came after Nora Hauptle left the job when contract renewal talks with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) failed over monetary demands.
Kim Lars’ team began the tournament with a 2-0 defeat to South Africa but quickly recovered in the subsequent games to play as a cohesive unit as they progressed.
His tactical prowess made the team improve after every match in the tournament.
Standout Players
Some players showcased their potential during the tournament with their terrific performances, keeping the team in good shape.
Some of the players include Black Queens captain Portia Boakye, Grace Asantewaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, goalie Cynthia Fiindib Konlan, Stella Nyamekye, Alice Kusi, and others.
If this crop of players are maintained and the team built around them, the team could be touted as one of the strong contenders for the next edition of WAFCON.
GFA’s Commitment to Women’s Football
The Ghana Football Association (GFA), under the tutelage of President Kurt Okraku, deserves plaudits for its intention to promote women’s football in the country.
The appointment of Kim Lars after Hauptle’s departure, which has brought success to the team, is one of the decisions that influenced the Black Queens‘ performance at the WAFCON 2024.
Their deliberate effort to invest and promote the Ghana Women’s Premier League helped to churn out players who excelled during the WAFCON.
The Love They Brought to Ghanaians
The Black Queens‘ progression to the semi-finals of WAFCON for the first time since 2016 elated many Ghanaians across the country.
For the first time in a while, Members of Parliament commended the team’s performance.
While some attributed it to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s efforts, others argued that the New Patriotic Party laid the foundation for women’s football while in government.
Footballers, sports pundits, and fans were full of praise for the team, although they could not win the ultimate trophy.
They believe it is a good sign for the team’s future.
Meanwhile, watch as football fans question FIFA’s move to scrap penalty rebound rule
