Head coach of Ghana’s Black Queens, Kim Lars Björkegren, says he is anticipating a stern challenge when his side faces arch-rivals Nigeria in their final preparatory match ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Queens have so far enjoyed a successful build-up to the tournament, beating Malawi 3-1 last Saturday before coming from behind to defeat Benin 4-2 in a spirited performance on Wednesday.
Despite the two wins, the Swedish trainer is expecting a far more difficult test on Saturday when Ghana lock horns with Nigeria.
“With full respect to Malawi and Benin, Nigeria is one step up. One of the best teams in Africa with good players in almost every position,” Björkegren told the team’s media.
“The game against Nigeria is going to be a very, very tough game. But that’s also what we need now because we have shown that our lowest level is high enough. We know that we can score goals, and we have built a good defence, so it’s going to be fun to match up against one of the best teams,” he added.
Reflecting on the win over Benin, Björkegren highlighted his side’s growing maturity, particularly in attack, and the significance of maintaining a winning mentality.
“I think overall, it’s a good game with a great second half. We were struggling a little bit in the middle of the first half, but when we took control and started to play football, we were absolutely the better team.”
Ghana has been drawn in Group C alongside South Africa, Mali, and Tanzania for the WAFCON, which kicks off in Morocco on July 5.
