Kurt Okraku
Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Simeon-Okraku has expressed strong belief in the Black Queens’ ability to challenge for honours at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following the official tournament draw.
Ghana have been placed in Group D alongside Cameroon, Mali and Cape Verde for the competition, which will be hosted in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Coming off a third-place finish at the previous edition, the Black Queens will be looking to build on that momentum and push further toward continental success.
Reacting to the draw, Simeon-Okraku voiced confidence in head coach Kim Lars Björkegren, praising his experience and leadership as key assets ahead of the tournament.
“I think the head coach is very experienced and capable of guiding the girls,” he said. “I have no doubt that we will compete strongly and qualify for the World Cup.”
Despite rising expectations after Ghana’s bronze medal finish, the GFA President played down pressure, stressing the importance of focus and emotional control.
“Pressure exists everywhere, including in football,” he noted. “What matters most is how you react and handle those situations.”
Simeon-Okraku also emphasised that Ghana’s recent performances prove the team can compete with any side on the continent.
“After finishing third at the last WAFCON, Ghana should be ready to face any opponent,” he said.
Reaffirming the long-term target, he added that winning the WAFCON title remains the ultimate national ambition.
The tournament also serves as a crucial route back to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, with semi-finalists earning automatic qualification — a feat Ghana last achieved in 2007.
BY Wletsu Ransford