By: Kwame Bediako
What should have marked the crowning achievement of Ghana’s Black Queens on the road to next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has instead become overshadowed by a bitter dispute over unpaid bonuses. The looming qualifier now threatens to unravel in the face of growing unrest.
Black Queens one win away from 14th WAFCON appearance
After a dominant 3-0 win over Egypt in the first leg in Ismailia, the Black Queens are in prime position to secure their 12th WAFCON spot. The second leg at Accra Sports Stadium was meant to be a formality spotlighting their progress.
From preparation to protest
Instead of focusing on tactical and physical preparation, the team finds itself engaged in a tense standoff with Ghanaian football authorities, casting doubts over Tuesday, October 28, 2025 game and disrupting what should have been a straightforward qualification celebration.
Training grounds turned protest zone as Black Queens demand past due payments
The team, based at the Erata Hotel in East Legon, have decided not to train since Saturday. Their collective protest centers on overdue allowances and bonuses owed since their successful 2024 WAFCON bronze-medal campaign, fueling frustration and uncertainty.
Leadership intervenes amid bonus beadlock but resolution still elusive
High-level figures including GFA President Kurt Simon-Okraku and PFAG General Secretary Tony Baffoe sought dialogue with the squad, hoping to bridge divides. Yet, the deadlock remains, spotlighting the challenges in reconciling promises with actions.
Ministry’s broken promise leaves Black Queens waiting for payment
The squad remains adamant about halting training unless the Ministry of Sports and Recreation formally addresses the issue. A July promise to pay the $9,000 arrears per player within two weeks remains unmet, deepening disillusionment.
How bonus dispute dampens Black Queens’ spirit
Prior to the dispute, the team’s morale soared with social media campaigns urging fans to pack the Accra Sports Stadium, mirroring the energy around the Black Stars. Now, the growing tension darkens the mood, threatening to spoil what should have been a triumphant moment.
