- “The Whole Nation Is Behind You” – Sports Minister Rallies Black Queens Ahead of WAFCON Opener Against Cape Verde
Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has thrown his full support behind the Black Queens, urging the team to play with courage, confidence and determination as they prepare to begin their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign against Cape Verde.
The minister paid a morale-boosting visit to the team’s training session in Morocco on the eve of Wednesday’s Group C opener at the Moulay Rachid Stadium, delivering a message of encouragement from the Government and the people of Ghana.
Addressing the players and technical team, Adams assured them that the country is united behind their quest for continental glory.
“I bring you warm greetings and the unwavering support of the Executive and Parliament. The whole nation is behind you, believing in your talent and your ability to make Ghana proud,” he told the squad.
The Sports Minister encouraged the players to embrace the challenge with belief and fight for one another whenever they step onto the pitch.
“When you step onto that pitch, play with courage, play for one another and play for the millions of Ghanaians who believe in you. Leave everything on the field and let your performances speak for the nation,” he said.
Adams also reminded the team that WAFCON presents an opportunity to inspire a new generation of female footballers while adding another memorable chapter to Ghana’s rich football history.
“This tournament is your stage to inspire a generation. You have been here before and performed well. We are back to do even better this time. Go out there, compete fearlessly and show Africa the true spirit of the Black Queens.”
The minister praised the players and coaching staff for their commitment throughout the team’s preparations and expressed confidence that their hard work would be rewarded with strong performances during the tournament.
Ghana head into the championship aiming to reclaim their place among Africa’s elite after years of rebuilding. The Black Queens are making another appearance at the continental showpiece with hopes of progressing deep into the competition and challenging for their first WAFCON title.
Their opening opponents, Cape Verde, will be making history by featuring in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the first time. The debutants earned qualification after an impressive campaign and will be eager to make a strong first impression on the continental stage.
Wednesday’s encounter is expected to provide an early test for both sides, with Ghana seeking a winning start to boost confidence ahead of the remaining Group C fixtures.
Victory would hand the Black Queens an ideal platform as they chase qualification to the knockout rounds, while Cape Verde will be hoping to cap their historic debut with a memorable result against one of Africa’s traditional powerhouses.
With government backing, national expectations and months of preparation behind them, the Black Queens now turn their focus to the task at hand as they look to begin their WAFCON 2026 journey on a winning note.
