WAFCON Third-Place Finishers Black Queens to Return to Accra Early Monday Morning, July 28

After a remarkable and inspiring performance at the 2024 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Morocco, Ghana’s Black Queens are preparing to return home, greeted by the anticipation of a heartfelt and celebratory welcome from their nation. The team’s journey through the tournament not only revived national pride but also demonstrated the grit, skill, and unwavering spirit of Ghanaian women’s football on the continental stage.

The Black Queens, having secured the bronze medal, are scheduled to arrive at Kotoka International Airport early on Monday, July 28, at 5:00 am aboard a Royal Air Maroc flight. This return marks the conclusion of a memorable campaign that saw Ghana’s finest female footballers compete fiercely against some of Africa’s best teams, ultimately ending a drought of more than a decade since their last WAFCON podium finish.

Captained by the tenacious and experienced Portia Boakye, the Black Queens showcased resilience and determination from the very start of the tournament. Their campaign began with a series of confident displays in the group stages, where they managed to navigate a competitive pool, securing vital points to advance into the knockout rounds. Throughout these initial matches, the team’s cohesion and tactical discipline were evident, signaling that they were serious contenders for the title.

Advancing to the quarterfinals, Ghana maintained their momentum, demonstrating tactical awareness and composure under pressure. However, the semifinals proved to be a heartbreaking moment for the team and their supporters. Facing the host nation Morocco, the Black Queens engaged in a fiercely contested battle that ultimately was decided by a penalty shootout — an agonizing conclusion that ended Ghana’s hopes of reaching the final. Despite the loss, the team’s effort was commendable, earning them widespread respect for their spirited performance against a motivated and vocally supported Moroccan side.

Refusing to let disappointment dampen their spirits, the Black Queens turned their focus to the third-place playoff match with renewed determination. In a showdown against the defending champions South Africa — a team with a rich history of success in African women’s football — Ghana demonstrated remarkable mental strength and skill. The match was intensely competitive and, once again, culminated in a penalty shootout. This time, Ghana emerged victorious, clinching the bronze medal and securing their place on the podium for the first time since 2012.

This achievement is a significant milestone for Ghanaian women’s football, representing not only the culmination of hard work and dedication but also a sign of progress and potential for the future. The Black Queens’ success has reignited interest and enthusiasm for the sport across Ghana, inspiring a new generation of young girls to pursue football with passion and ambition.

The bronze medal victory also underscores the importance of continued investment in women’s football infrastructure, training, and development programs in Ghana. Support from the government, football associations, and private sector partners will be crucial to build on this momentum and ensure sustained success for the Black Queens and upcoming talents.

Captain Portia Boakye’s leadership throughout the tournament was widely praised, as she motivated her teammates to perform at their best and remain united through challenging moments. Her experience and guidance played a pivotal role in navigating the team through high-pressure situations, including crucial penalty shootouts and tightly contested matches.

As the Black Queens prepare to touch down in Accra, excitement and pride ripple across the nation. Fans, families, and football officials eagerly await their return, ready to celebrate the team’s achievements and welcome them home as heroes. This homecoming is not just about honoring a medal-winning campaign but also about recognizing the hard work, sacrifices, and commitment of the players and coaching staff.

Looking ahead, the Black Queens’ journey at WAFCON 2024 provides a solid foundation on which Ghana can build. With sustained support and development, the team is poised to continue making strides on the African and global stage, representing the hopes and dreams of millions of Ghanaian football fans.

In summary, Ghana’s Black Queens have made their country proud by winning the bronze medal at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Their return to Accra on Monday, July 28, signals the end of a successful chapter and the beginning of a new era filled with promise and potential for women’s football in Ghana.