Stories and facts
The Ghana women’s national football team, popularly known as the Black Queens, represents Ghana in international women’s football.
Governed by the Ghana Football Association, the Black Queens have established themselves as one of Africa’s prominent teams. Over the years, they have showcased remarkable talent and resilience, earning their nickname as a symbol of pride and strength.
The team has had various kit suppliers since its inception, transitioning from Germany’s Erima in 1991 to Adidas, Italy’s Kappa, and finally to Germany’s Puma in 2005, which continues to supply the team’s kits.
The Black Queens’ home matches and training sessions take place across several venues, including the Kumasi Sports Stadium, Accra Sports Stadium, Cape Coast Sports Stadium, and Tamale Stadium.
Their primary training facility is the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, which serves as a technical hub for their preparations.
One of the most significant rivalries for the Black Queens is with Nigeria’s Super Falcons. This rivalry dates back to their first international encounter and remains a fierce competition, reflecting the intense footballing culture of the West African sub-region.
The team’s recent results highlight their competitive spirit. In 2023, they had successful outings in the Olympic and Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AFWCON) qualifiers, securing victories against Guinea, Rwanda, and Benin before facing tougher challenges against Zambia and Japan in 2024. These fixtures underline the Black Queens’ ongoing efforts to assert dominance on the continental and global stages.
The coaching staff has been instrumental in the team’s development. Swiss head coach Nora Häuptle currently leads the team, supported by a dedicated team of assistant coaches, physiotherapists, goalkeeping coaches, and other technical staff.
Past managers have included notable names like Bashir Hayford, Yusif Basigi, and Mercy Tagoe-Quarcoo, who have contributed to the team’s growth over the years.
The current squad comprises talented players representing clubs from across the globe, including Cynthia Konlan from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, Victoria Agyei from Turkey’s Antalya Spor, and Philomena Abakah from Serbia’s Red Star Belgrade. The team also boasts experienced leaders like captain Portia Boakye and rising stars such as Mukarama Abdulai.
Historically, the Black Queens have had a strong presence in major tournaments. They participated in the FIFA Women’s World Cup thrice, reaching the group stage each time.
In the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, they have been runners-up multiple times, showcasing their competitive edge in African football. The team’s performance in the Olympic Games, however, remains a work in progress as they continue to strive for qualification.
The legacy of the Black Queens is further enriched by individual accolades, with players like Alberta Sackey and Adjoa Bayor earning recognition as African Women Players of the Year.
Captains such as Elizabeth Addo and Alberta Sackey have also played pivotal roles in inspiring and leading the team.
As the Black Queens prepare for future challenges, their commitment to excellence and passion for the game remain unwavering. They continue to inspire a new generation of footballers in Ghana and across Africa, embodying the spirit of determination and unity.
