Ghana midfielder Evelyn Badu says the Black Queens are ready to produce their best football after her goal helped secure qualification for the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Badu scored in Ghana’s crucial Group C match against Mali, earning the point the team needed to progress to the knockout stage. The former Black Princesses player said she was delighted to have made an important contribution, although she admitted Ghana had wanted to take all three points.
“Yeah, we’re really happy. Although we wanted to win so badly, but at least we got a point and it’s gotten us through to the quarterfinals, which is really important for us. So, we’re really happy and looking forward to the next game,” Badu said.
Ghana will now face Malawi in the quarter-finals as they attempt to reach the semi-finals. Badu acknowledged that the two teams had met before but warned that previous results would not determine the outcome of their latest contest.
“Yeah, we’ve played them before, but I think football has different ways. We’re not going to look at the fact that we scored them. Now it’s something different and we’re going in with a different approach and winning is just what we’re looking forward to.”
The midfielder has been one of Ghana’s standout performers at the tournament and said she was proud to have delivered for both her team-mates and her country when the pressure was greatest.
“Really happy that I took it for the team, for the nation Ghana as well. And now we are on the next stage. I always say they should keep on supporting us and keep on their prayers and we’re going to deliver,” she added.
Badu also praised the atmosphere within the Black Queens squad, pointing to the different personalities in the camp as a key reason for the positive mood around the team.
“Everyone was ready, not only me, but we are different people and everyone has their way of showing it. I always want to be like music all the time.”
As Ghana prepare for their meeting with Malawi, Badu said she remains focused on contributing whenever she is called upon. The 2022 WAFCON bronze medalist reiterated her determination to maintain her high level of performance as the Black Queens pursue a place in the last four.
“Yeah, and looking forward to always being productive for the team and helping the team whenever the team needs me,” Badu concluded.
GFA Communications
