2026 WAFCON: 'We have what it takes’ – Kurt Okraku backs Black Queens
16th January 2026
Ghana Football Association president Kurt Okraku says he is confident the Black Queens have the quality, experience and support needed to qualify for the Women’s World Cup, as preparations begin for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Black Queens were drawn into Group D alongside Cameroon, Mali and Cape Verde, with matches to be played in the northern Moroccan city of Fes. Only the top two teams in each group will progress to the knockout stage, while reaching the semi-finals will secure a coveted place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Speaking after the draw, Okraku struck an optimistic tone, insisting Ghana have no reason to fear the challenge ahead.
“We will want to be at the World Cup, and I believe the Black Queens have the qualities to be at the World Cup,” he said. “We have the right technical team to support the girls, and the government is ready to support the girls.”
Ghana are seeking a return to the global stage after nearly two decades away, and expectations are beginning to build around a squad that has shown signs of renewed promise in recent years. Okraku acknowledged the pressure that comes with such ambition but played down any suggestion it could derail the team.
“If it is about pressure, there is pressure everywhere,” he added. “What is important is how you react to situations.”
The GFA president also expressed strong belief in the leadership of the technical bench, pointing to the experience of the head coach as a key factor in navigating the demands of the tournament.
“The head coach is very experienced to guide the girls, and I have no doubt whatsoever that we will compete and make it to the World Cup,” he said.
Group D is expected to be competitive, with Cameroon and Mali both boasting strong women’s programmes, while Cape Verde arrive as an emerging force. For Ghana, the challenge will be to combine talent with composure, particularly in high-pressure moments that could define their World Cup hopes.
As the countdown to WAFCON 2026 continues, the message from the top of Ghana football is clear: belief is strong, support is in place, and the Black Queens are being challenged to turn promise into history on African soil.