Ghana reveal 25-strong Black Queens squad for 2026 Women’s AFCON campaign

Kim Lars Bjorkegren has named a 25-player Ghana squad blending established internationals with rising prospects for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The Black Queens head coach confirmed his final selection after what the Ghana Football Association describes as several weeks of “intensive” preparations, featuring training camps and a series of international friendlies used to fine-tune the group.

Portia Boakye will captain the side at the tournament, with the experienced defender again the most recognisable figure in a squad that Bjorkegren appears to have built around a core of senior players supplemented by emerging talent.

Among the key names retained are midfielder Grace Asantewaa, goalkeeper Cynthia Findiib Konlan, Jennifer Cudjoe, forward Doris Boaduwaa and Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah – all expected to have significant roles during the Black Queens’ continental campaign.

New faces and emerging talent

Bjorkegren has also handed opportunities to several players pushing through on the back of impressive recent form in camp and in friendly matches.

Sharon Sampson of Petea IF and Abena Anoma Opoku of East Bengal FC are both included, underlining the coach’s willingness to cast his eye across different leagues in assembling his squad.

There is also a call-up for highly rated Black Princesses youngster Linda Owusu Ansah, who steps up from Ghana’s youth ranks after catching the eye during the pre-tournament build-up.

Coaching staff have highlighted the performances of the younger contingent throughout training and preparation matches, with several of them forcing their way into contention for the final tournament list.

Balance of experience and youth

The overall group reflects Bjorkegren’s attempt to strike a balance between continuity and renewal, with seasoned internationals providing leadership for a new generation of players breaking into the senior set-up.

Boakye’s presence at the heart of the squad is seen as central to that approach, with the captain expected to anchor both the dressing room and the pitch during the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

While Ghana’s specific objectives for the tournament have not yet been publicly outlined in detail, the selection hints at an ambition to be competitive immediately while also building a team capable of developing over the longer term.

The announcement of the 25-player list marks the latest step in Ghana’s preparations as the Black Queens continue to gear up for their return to the continental stage in 2026.