Bjorkegren: Black Queens Ready to “Jump Into Deep Water” Ahead of England Test
Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren says Ghana are fully aware of the challenge that awaits them when they face reigning European champions England on Tuesday, December 2, at St. Mary’s Stadium in Southampton.
But despite the gulf in pedigree and expectations, he insists his team is ready to embrace the test with courage and determination.
Speaking ahead of the international friendly, Björkegren admitted the fixture represents one of the toughest possible assignments for his side as they continue their rebuilding and development phase.
“We are jumping into deep water to see if we can swim,” the Swedish coach said. “We know it’s going to be a very difficult game.”
The Black Queens face an England side stacked with world-class talent, depth and experience; qualities that have taken the Lionesses to major tournament finals in recent years including back to back triumphs at the European Women Championships.
For Björkegren, however, the challenge is exactly what Ghana needs as they push to re-establish themselves among the top sides in African women’s football.
He noted that matches of this calibre provide invaluable exposure, testing the players’ tactical discipline, physical readiness, and mental strength. The coach believes the Queens will benefit from going toe-to-toe with one of the world’s elite teams, regardless of the result on the night.
The clash at St. Mary’s comes at a time when the Black Queens are looking to build a stronger identity under Björkegren, with several young players breaking into the squad and a renewed emphasis on structure and competitiveness.
As Tuesday approaches, the message from the Ghana camp is clear: respect England, but don’t fear them.
For Björkegren and his players, this is a chance to measure progress—and to prove they can swim in deep waters.