Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has urged the entire nation to rally behind the Black Queens as they begin their 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign in Morocco, with a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup also at stake.
In a statement issued ahead of the tournament, Simeon-Okraku appealed to supporters, the media, corporate partners and all stakeholders to give unwavering backing to the national women’s team as they pursue continental success and a return to the world stage.
“I urge all Ghanaiansour supporters, the media, corporate partners and every stakeholder to stand firmly behind the team with unwavering encouragement and belief. Let us celebrate their commitment, appreciate their sacrifices and inspire them throughout their journey,” the statement read.
Renewed confidence after bronze finish
Simeon-Okraku highlighted that the Black Queens head to Morocco buoyed by their performance at the previous edition of WAFCON, where they secured a bronze medal. He said that achievement has rekindled optimism about restoring Ghana’s status among the leading forces in African women’s football.
He stressed that the squad now combines quality and determination, insisting they are capable of challenging for the title while targeting qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“The Black Queens head into the tournament with renewed confidence and ambition following their impressive bronze-medal finish at the last edition,” he said.
“They now have an opportunity not only to challenge for continental honours but also to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and return Ghana to the pinnacle of women’s football.”
Message to the players
Addressing the squad directly, Simeon-Okraku – who also serves as 2nd Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) – assured the players that the country is fully behind them.
He encouraged the team to demonstrate resilience and national pride each time they step onto the pitch in Morocco.
“To the Black Queens, the entire nation is behind you. Play with courage, pride and determination, and go out there to make Ghana proud,” he said.
Growing support around Black Queens campaign
Simeon-Okraku’s rallying call adds to increasing expressions of support from government representatives, football administrators and fans as the Black Queens prepare for the tournament.
Ghana have been drawn in Group D alongside Cape Verde, Cameroon and Mali as they attempt to build on their recent bronze-medal campaign and convert renewed optimism into a sustained challenge for the WAFCON trophy and a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
