WAFCON 2026: Black Queens target winning start against Cape Verde

Ghana’s Black Queens have completed their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and will begin their campaign against Cape Verde on Wednesday looking to make a positive start in Group D.

Head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s side wrapped up their final training session in Morocco ahead of the opening fixture, with the players appearing sharp and confident before the encounter at the Moulay Rachid Stadium.

Ghana enter tournament in encouraging form

The Black Queens have spent the past few weeks in Morocco fine-tuning their preparations for the continental showpiece.

Their build-up included three friendly matches, with Ghana recording victories over Côte d’Ivoire and Mali before playing out a draw against Tanzania, results that have provided momentum ahead of the tournament.

Victory over Cape Verde would strengthen Ghana’s hopes of progressing from the group stage and laying the foundation for a deep run in the competition.

Bjorkegren outlines ambitious targets

Despite focusing on the immediate challenge of their opening match, Bjorkegren has made it clear that Ghana have set ambitious goals for the tournament.

“We have three targets. The first is to qualify from the group stage. The second, which is very important, is to reach the semi-finals because that will qualify us for the World Cup. If we achieve that, then we have to go all the way and win WAFCON,” he said in a pre-match interview.

Crucial opener awaits

The Black Queens will face Cape Verde in their Group D opener on Wednesday, 29 July, with kick-off scheduled for 17:00 GMT at the Moulay Rachid Stadium.

A strong start would give Ghana an early advantage in the race for a place in the knockout stages as they pursue both continental glory and qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.