By Grace Zigah
Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren is setting his sights high, aiming to lead Ghana’s senior women’s national team to a historic Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when the competition kicks off later this year in Morocco.
Just two months into the job, the Swedish tactician—known for his attacking philosophy and international coaching pedigree—has already begun shaping his team, despite the challenges that come with transitioning into African football.
Bjorkegren, formerly head coach of U.S. club Racing Louisville in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), has been intensively evaluating local talent as part of a broader effort to rebuild a competitive squad capable of challenging the continent’s best.
Tactical Assessment
The Black Queens are currently in the midst of a comprehensive training camp at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence.
This third camp under Bjorkegren’s leadership features 31 players, including 24 from the Ghana Women’s Premier League—a deliberate move to deepen the coach’s understanding of domestic talent and build team chemistry ahead of the WAFCON.
“For me, to see all the players in Ghana is impossible. When I am here, I maybe have the chance to watch one game at 3pm. But if there are no more games later, I can’t see all the players,” Bjorkegren explained to 3Sports.
“So this was a great chance for me to bring many players to get to know them on and off the pitch.”
The coach has overseen three international friendlies since his appointment, including back-to-back matches against Morocco and Senegal.
Although the Black Queens suffered defeats to Morocco and one leg against Senegal, they secured a win in the second encounter with the West African rivals.
These games have served as critical testing grounds for Bjorkegren’s early tactical implementations and squad selections.
Tough Group, Bigger Goals
Ghana’s qualification for the 2024 WAFCON marks a return to the continental stage after missing the 2022 edition—an absence that deeply frustrated fans and stakeholders.
The Black Queens have been drawn into Group C, where they will face defending champions South Africa, alongside Tanzania and Mali.
Despite the stiff competition, Bjorkegren remains unfazed.
“For me, it is simple to win the gold medal. You need to take it step by step and I know we are not going to be a favorite for people outside of Ghana. There are some five nations who have a bigger chance to win it. We need to qualify from the group stage. From there it’s three games—and I know we can do it,” he said.
His approach underscores the need for focused progression through the group stage before launching a full-scale bid for the trophy.
Aiming for Ghana’s First-Ever WAFCON Title
While the Black Queens have a proud history in women’s football, including multiple runner-up finishes, they have never won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The last time they climbed the podium was in 2016, when they defeated South Africa 1-0 to clinch third place.
That tournament remains one of Ghana’s standout performances in recent years, and fans are eager for the team to finally break the title jinx.
Bjorkegren’s blend of local and international insight is seen by many analysts as the missing piece that could bring glory.
With growing support from the Ghana Football Association and an influx of promising domestic talent, expectations are mounting ahead of WAFCON 2024.
