By: Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s Black Queens have received a $2,000 cash prize from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation as a reward for their spirited run to the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The gesture comes as a boost to the team, who have reignited national hopes with their performance in this year’s tournament, making it to the last eight for the first time since 2016.
The journey began with adversity as the Black Queens suffered a 2-0 opening game defeat to defending champions South Africa. Undeterred, the team fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against Mali in their second group match. These early results left Ghana needing a convincing victory in their final group outing to keep tournament hopes alive.
Facing the pressure, the Queens delivered their best display yet, overcoming Tanzania 4-1 in their final Group C fixture. Goals from Princella Adubea, Alice Kusi, Evelyn Badu, and Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah powered Ghana past their opponents in a must-win encounter.
The emphatic result propelled the team to the quarter-finals, sparking celebrations among fans and players, and marking the country’s best WAFCON performance in nearly a decade.
Following their qualification, the Ministry expressed its pride in the team’s resilience and fighting spirit, announcing the financial reward as a token of appreciation and a source of further motivation. The Ministry’s timely support comes amidst efforts to resolve earlier delays in player allowances, underscoring a renewed commitment to supporting women’s football in Ghana.
The Black Queens now prepare for a high-stakes clash against Algeria, set for Saturday, August 19, with a coveted semi-final place on the line.
As public enthusiasm swells and expectations rise, the team will hope that their momentum and the Ministry’s backing propels them even further in the competition.
