By Gertrude Tandoh
The story of Ghana’s Black Queens at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco is more than a tale of sporting success; it is a narrative of resilience, transformation, and national pride that has captured the hearts of Ghanaians and inspired countless young girls across the country.
For years leading up to their bronze medal finish, the Black Queens faced numerous challenges. Inconsistent results on the continental stage, limited funding, and a lack of exposure threatened to dim the team’s once-bright promise. Yet, adversity became the crucible in which their determination was forged. Under the strategic leadership of Coach Kim Lars Björkegren, the team embraced a new culture of tactical discipline, grit, and self-belief. Training camps were intense and focused, demanding sacrifices from players who often balanced football with education and other responsibilities—embodying the unyielding spirit behind their resurgence.
At the tournament, the Black Queens became a symbol of tenacity. They executed a blend of flair and tactical intelligence during the group stages, earning respect from fans and opponents alike. Though they narrowly missed the final after a hard-fought semifinal defeat to host nation Morocco, their resolve did not waver. In the bronze medal playoff against their fierce rivals South Africa, Ghana fought with heart and skill. Alice Kusi’s timely equalizer and goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan’s exceptional saves in the penalty shootout sealed a thrilling 4-3 victory, sparking celebrations nationwide.
The team’s return to Accra was met with unprecedented enthusiasm—a heroes’ welcome that reflected the renewed pride in Ghanaian women’s football. Thousands of jubilant fans gathered at Kotoka International Airport, waving flags, singing, and dancing in honor of the team’s achievement. Official receptions at the Jubilee House and Ghana’s Parliament followed, where the players were lauded not just as athletes but as national ambassadors of hope and progress. Visits to historic sites like the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum underscored the broader significance of their achievement: a moment of unity and inspiration for all Ghanaians.
The Impact of the Black Queens’ success resonates far beyond the pitch. Their journey from struggle to triumph shines as a beacon for young girls across Ghana, many of whom now see football—and by extension, their dreams—as accessible and attainable. Captain Portia Boakye, alongside standout performers, personifies this message of empowerment, showing that persistence and dedication can overcome barriers. Local football academies report a surge in girls’ participation, motivated by the team’s achievements and calls for gender equality in sports.
In response to this momentum, the Ghana Football Association and the Ministry of Sports have committed to bolstering youth development programs, seeking to nurture the next generation of female football stars. The Black Queens’ voice, heard loud and clear during their victory tour, emphasizes equal opportunities and support for women in sport—a clarion call for societal change.
In essence, the Black Queens’ 2024 WAFCON bronze medal is much more than a sporting milestone—it is a symbol of renewal and inspiration. Their story teaches that with determination, unity, and belief, obstacles can be transformed into steppingstones. For every young girl in Ghana now dreaming under the sun or on dusty fields, the Black Queens stand as proof that with passion and perseverance, dreams can indeed become historic reality.
