Despite a 1-0 defeat in the second leg away to Namibia in a dramatic final qualifier in Pretoria, South Africa, the Black Queens of Ghana secured qualification for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
This triumphant return to the continental stage follows their heart-wrenching miss in the 2022 tournament.
Marking their first appearance in the WAFCON since hosting the event in 2018, the Black Queens, under the leadership of Coach Nora Hauptle, have undergone a remarkable transformation. Previously struggling to qualify, the team now captivates audiences with an elevated level of play and newfound brilliance.
Coach Hauptle and her team’s journey to WAFCON 2024 saw them join hosts Morocco, South Africa, and Algeria, who had already secured their slots. Record champions Nigeria are also on the verge of qualification, setting the stage for an intense competition.
Reflecting on their qualifying campaign, the Black Queens demonstrated dominance with convincing victories:
- Rwanda 0-7 Ghana (21st September, 2023, King Ali Pele Stadium)
- Ghana 5-0 Rwanda (26th September, 2023, Accra Sports Stadium)
- Ghana 3-1 Namibia (2nd December, 2023, Accra Sports Stadium)
- Namibia 1-0 Ghana (5th December, 2023, Pretoria, South Africa)
Finishing with three wins, one loss, 15 goals scored, and only two goals conceded, the Black Queens’ impressive performance exemplifies their resurgence on the African women’s football scene.
As they prepare for WAFCON 2024, expectations are high for Coach Nora Hauptle and her dynamic team.
