Honestly, Kofi Adams wasn’t messing around when he called out the Black Queens. The Sports Minister basically told the squad to channel that classic Ghanaian fire—the same stubborn independence and “we-don’t-quit” attitude that’s baked into the country’s DNA—as they head for the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. (Yeah, weirdly, the 2024 AFCON is in July 2025. CAF’s schedule is its own beast, don’t ask.)
So, Ghana’s in Group C, which, let’s not sugarcoat it, is kinda brutal. They’re up against South Africa—the reigning champs—plus Mali and Tanzania. No stroll in the park. It’s a big deal, too, because the Queens haven’t even been at this tournament since 2018. Feels like forever, right?
Adams, in classic rally-the-troops mode, hammered home unity and discipline and pretty much begged everyone—coaches, fans, the whole football ecosystem—to get off the sidelines and get loud. “Let the spirit of independence, hard work, and perseverance motivate our girls,” he said. (Translation: don’t just watch, DO something.) Basically, he wants the Black Queens to remember they’re carrying the hopes of a whole country that’s obsessed with freedom and excellence.
Back in the day (think late ’90s, early 2000s), Ghana’s women’s team was the team everyone feared. But since their last FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2007? Not so much. There’s this big, gaping hole in Ghana’s football story, and folks are itching to patch it up.
With Morocco set as the stage, Ghana’s not just showing up—they’re aiming for a full-on comeback. Adams is calling out everyone—players, coaches, even the politicians—to put their weight behind the team. “Support their efforts and ensure they have every resource needed to excel,” he said. Which is politician-speak for: “No more excuses, let’s get it together.”
He laid it on thick for the players, too. “Go out there and make Ghana proud. Show the world what our women can achieve.” No pressure, right?
Looking way ahead, Adams is already talking Brazil 2027, like, “Hey, this is just the warm-up. Let’s all get in formation now if we want to see the Queens at the next World Cup.” He’s making it clear: this isn’t just a sports thing—it’s a national thing.
And yeah, he promised the government’s got their back. “Ghana’s leadership and people are united in their support for our women’s football. We believe in your talent and commitment. Together, we will rise.” Not bad for a pep talk.
Here’s the rundown for the group stage:
- Ghana vs. South Africa: Monday, 7th July 2025 (Yikes, what a way to start.)
- Ghana vs. Mali: Friday, 11th July 2025
- Ghana vs. Tanzania: Monday, 14th July 2025
If the Queens handle business and get out of the group, it’s on to the quarters, then semis, and—hey, dare to dream—the final on July 26th. So yeah, buckle up, Ghana. This could get pretty wild.