Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren has selected a 22-member squad for an upcoming three-nation tournament in Tanzania. This competition is a key part of the team's strategy to prepare for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) which will be held in Morocco.
The tournament will feature Tanzania as the host nation, alongside Ghana's Black Queens and Malawi. This event provides a crucial platform for the players to gain international match experience and for the coaching staff to assess team performance before the major continental championship. The squad selection on May 29, 2026, reflects a strategic approach towards building a formidable team.
This international friendly tournament directly impacts Ghana's sporting economy by highlighting investments in women's football. Such events are vital for developing talent and potentially attracting future sponsorship deals. The inclusion of players from the Ghana Women’s Premier League also stimulates domestic competition and player development, contributing to the broader sports sector's growth. The reported GHS 5 million sponsorship deal between Gold Fields and the Ghana FA, though for the men's team, illustrates the financial significance of football sponsorships in Ghana.
The 22-player roster consists of two goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards. A notable inclusion is Ajegipina Zakaria, the current top scorer in the Ghana Women’s Premier League. She is the sole home-based player called up to the camp, signifying the coach's emphasis on blending local talent with international experience. This careful selection aims to build a cohesive and competitive unit for the challenges ahead.
The team's performance in this tournament will be closely watched by football authorities and potential investors. Further success in WAFCON could lead to increased funding and greater public interest in women's football in Ghana. The results will also inform future player development strategies and resource allocation within the Ghana Football Association's budget. Attention will be on how the selected squad performs against different African teams.