To get ready for the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which is set to begin on July 7, 2025, Ghana’s Black Queens will play three international warm-up games.
Before the continental tournament, these games will be crucial chances for the team to improve team cohesiveness, adjust to competitive conditions, and hone their tactical approaches.
On June 21, the Queens will play their first match against Malawi at Benslimane’s Ziaida Complex. It is anticipated that this match will put their flexibility to the test against a technically proficient and disciplined opponent.
The team will play Botswana at the same location four days later, giving them another opportunity to assess their performance against various playing philosophies. Before the tournament starts, these games will provide the team with invaluable experience and increase their self-confidence.
On June 29 at the Lanouria Complex, the team will play their final warm-up game against their bitter rivals, the Nigerian Super Falcons. This crucial match is regarded as a must-win since it will help the Queens get ready for their first WAFCON group stage encounter against the reigning champions, South Africa.
“We want to test ourselves against different playing styles and team dynamics. Malawi and Botswana provide technical and disciplined opposition, while Nigeria offers the challenge of a traditional powerhouse. These matches are crucial for the team to identify areas for improvement and build the confidence needed for the high-pressure environment of the tournament”, Kim Lars Bjorkegren stated, explaining his motivations for the difficult games.
During their WAFCON campaign, the Black Queens will play against Tanzania, Mali, and South Africa in Group C.
The match against the defending champions, South Africa, marks the start of their adventure in what looks to be an extremely competitive tournament. The team’s preparations for these warm-up games aim to position them well as they pursue their first WAFCON title.