Following Black Queens penalty shootout victory over Algeria, the Black Queens of Ghana have booked their place in the semifinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The team will now face tournament hosts Morocco in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
Ahead of the semifinal clash, head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has expressed confidence in his team’s steady development and resilience throughout the tournament. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Björkegren highlighted the mental and physical demands of tournament football while commending his players for their rapid progress.
“It’s a little bit different, the way you have to think in tournaments like this,” he said. “You have to be there every single day mentally, tactically, physically. But the positive side is how quickly you see the development. I think we’re a better team now than we were one or two months ago.”
Since taking charge of the Black Queens, Björkegren has led the team through a strong campaign, with a focus on building team chemistry and instilling belief among his players. His leadership has been instrumental in Ghana’s journey to the semifinals.
“I believe in my players. I’ve seen them take huge steps in just a couple of weeks,” he stated. “This is a group that’s grown stronger with every match.”
Despite concerns about fatigue following a demanding fixture list, the coach remains unfazed. He acknowledged the challenge Morocco poses but stressed that the team is ready for the test.
“We know Morocco will be a tough opponent, especially as the host nation, but we need to focus on ourselves. We’ve shown that we can compete, and now we have a real chance to go even further.”
The semifinal showdown between Ghana and Morocco will not only determine a finalist but also test the tactical acumen and mental strength of two of the tournament’s standout teams. With momentum on their side and belief in their ranks, the Black Queens are eyeing a place in the WAFCON 2024 final.