Funding crisis threatens Black Queens’ preparation for WAFCON

The Black Queens of Ghana face a significant hurdle in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) preparations as international friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia hang in the balance due to funding issues.

With an estimated $40,000 needed to facilitate these games, efforts by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MoYS) and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to secure funds have stalled, jeopardizing the team’s crucial pre-tournament preparations.

Head coach Nora Häuptle expressed concern over the impact on the squad’s readiness, emphasizing the games’ importance for evaluating players and refining strategies.

Since qualifying for WAFCON with a dramatic win over Namibia, the Queens have played only one match, a friendly against Japan in July, leaving limited opportunities to build momentum.

Fans and players alike have voiced frustration, urging authorities to prioritize women’s football.

Despite potential sponsorship interest, no concrete commitments have emerged, leaving the team training at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram as time runs out.

The uncertainty highlights ongoing challenges in funding and support for women’s football in Ghana.