The Black Queens, Ghana’s women’s national team, have faced a major setback in their preparations for the 2025 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON). For the second consecutive international window, the team will not play any matches due to a lack of funding.
In the October window, the team was unable to participate in any friendly matches because the government did not approve their request for the games.
In the current November window, the team had planned two important friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia, aimed at providing competitive exposure ahead of the WAFCON tournament in Morocco, scheduled for July 2025.
Unfortunately, a reported lack of funds led to the cancellation of these matches, as the $40,000 budget needed for the two games was not approved.
While the Black Queens missed this crucial opportunity, other teams participating in the WAFCON took advantage of the two international windows to bolster their squads and prepare for the competition.
Defending champions South Africa played against Denmark, England, and twice against Jamaica. Host nation Morocco faced Tanzania, Senegal, and Botswana, while Nigeria played against Algeria and France.
The Black Queens’ absence from the last two international windows means they haven’t played since August 2024, and by April 2025, they will have gone eight months without a match, just three months before the WAFCON.
This situation has led to widespread disappointment, causing many fans to question the government’s commitment to the development of women’s football.
With the WAFCON only seven months away, the team’s lack of preparation puts them at a significant disadvantage. The tournament, which also acts as a qualifier for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, will take place from July 5 to 26, 2025.
For the Black Queens to compete effectively in the tournament, urgent action is needed to address the gaps in funding and preparation.
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