WAFCON 2026: Ghana and Ivory Coast set for crucial friendly on July 14

Ghana’s Black Queens will step up their preparations for the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) when they face Côte d’Ivoire in an international friendly on Tuesday, July 14.

The match, which kicks off at 17:00 GMT at the Stade Père Jégo in Casablanca, will be played behind closed doors as both teams continue fine-tuning their preparations for Africa’s premier women’s football competition.

Key test for Björkegren’s squad

The fixture offers Ghana head coach Kim Lars Björkegren another important opportunity to assess his squad as he works towards finalising his plans for the tournament.

The Black Queens have been engaged in an intensive training camp in Morocco, with the technical team using the build-up to strengthen team chemistry, improve tactical cohesion and evaluate player performances ahead of WAFCON.

Facing fellow West African opponents is expected to provide Ghana with a competitive test and valuable insight into the team’s readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.

Both teams aiming to build momentum

Ivory Coast are also expected to use the encounter to sharpen their preparations, making the friendly an important exercise for both sides despite the absence of spectators.

With the tournament drawing closer, the match gives the two nations a chance to measure their progress, address any remaining weaknesses and build confidence before the start of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.