By Gertrude Tandoh
The Road from Humble Beginnings
Ghana’s Black Queens, long cherished but often overshadowed, have captured the nation’s imagination by reaching the knockout round of WAFCON for the first time since 2016. Their journey Is more than a sporting feat—it is a story of rebirth, unity, and the unstoppable rise of Ghanaian women in football.
Building the Dream: Preparation and Belief
Before the first whistle blew, preparations were relentless yet full of hope.
Training Camps
The team went to Morocco two weeks prior to the tournament to begin training and be acquainted to the weather out there, blending experienced heads with eager debutantes. Coaches introduced novel tactics: quick counterattacks and aggressive wing play designed to unsettle even the strongest opponents.
Warm-Up Matches
The squad faced top-tier women’s teams such as Malawi and Nigeria often outmatched physically but never outdone in spirit. Every fixture became a lesson, every setback a collective rallying cry.
Some rising stars like Alice Kusi and Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah took the opportunity to represent the national team on their shoulders, sharing stories of struggles, triumphs, and the purpose behind the jersey.
Rising Stars, Defining Moments
Alice Kusi: The Inspiring Dynamo
Known for her relentless running and leadership, Kusi scored in crucial moments—her penalty against Tanzania not only turned the game but ignited belief throughout the squad. Off the pitch, she galvanized teammates: “It’s about leaving the shirt in a better place.”
Comfort Yeboah: Defender and Beacon
A new-generation center back, Yeboah played with composure belying her age. Her crucial interception against Mali halted a late surge and drew applause from the stands. Yeboah has become a symbol for aspiring footballers: proof that discipline and hard work yield opportunities.
Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah: Midfield Maestro
Boye-Hlorkah’s drive and vision controlled the team’s tempo. Her long-range strike against Tanzania—curled perfectly into the top corner—was celebrated across Ghanaian social media feeds. Her humility stood out: “Any award I receive is for all of us, especially the ones who never gave up on their dream.”
Princess Dankwah Marfo: Promise Realized
One of the youngest on the roster, Marfo offered blistering pace and relentless pressure. Her journey from community football in Kumasi to the continental stage has inspired coaches to redouble efforts at youth level.
Group Stage: Key Matches and Turning Points
They kicked off their campaign against South Africa and were dealt with a 2- nil loss in a match that they held strong until late, but were undone by clinical finish. They were then held to a one all draw with Mali in a match which saw Kusi’s opening goal and Yeboah’s defensive heroics shone. The 4–1 victory over Tanzania marked a watershed. The entire bench erupted at the final whistle—tears, joy, relief, and pride. It was no longer just about football.
Impact Beyond the Pitch
Young Girls Inspired
Village viewing centers overflowed, with girls painting their faces and copying their heroes’ goal celebrations.
Coaches Motivated
Grassroots trainers reported record sign-ups for girls’ leagues in Accra, Tamale, and beyond.
Community Energy
Local leaders used the Black Queens as an example in school assemblies, teaching values of teamwork and endurance.
“If these women can shine on Africa’s grandest stage, nothing is impossible for our daughters,” remarked a mother at a Kumasi watch party.
Looking Forward: The Quarterfinal Challenge
The Queens now face Algeria—a formidable step, but buoyed by renewed self-belief. Experts credit their resurgence to tactical discipline, attacking depth, and a bond that transcends club rivalries. Despite resource challenges, the players’ message is clear: they are Ghana’s hope and tomorrow’s legends in the making.
Legacy and Future
This campaign is leaving more than statistics or highlight reels. It’s changing conversations in homes, schools, and boardrooms. The Black Queens’ journey has galvanized support for women’s football, sparking debates about investment, infrastructure, and gender equality. The ripple effect is already visible: new leagues, fresh sponsors, and—most importantly—a new generation of dreamers.
“We play for every child who refuses to quit. For every Ghanaian who needs something to believe in,” said captain Alice Kusi, as the nation held its breath for the next chapter.
The Black Queens are not just chasing trophies. They are building a legacy—one that will echo far beyond the final whistle, inspiring Ghana for years to come.
