WAFCON 2026: Black Queens, Mali in Do-or-Die Battle for Qualification

Ghana's Black Queens are set for a decisive showdown against Mali today in their final Group D qualifier for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. The stakes are incredibly high, as both nations enter the match with identical three points from their previous two games.

Cameroon has already secured their place in the quarterfinals, leaving Ghana and Mali to battle for the single remaining qualification spot from the group. The Black Queens began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Cape Verde, but a narrow 1-0 loss to Cameroon in their second match put them in a precarious position.

Mali also started their campaign with a loss to Cameroon but revived their hopes with a win against Cape Verde. This sets up a winner-takes-all scenario where the victor advances, and the loser is eliminated from contention.

Ghana's performance against Cameroon was unconvincing, raising concerns about their ability to match Mali's physicality. Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren faces the significant challenge of strategizing to overcome the Malian team and secure the last available slot. The team appeared spirited in training after their previous match, but their success hinges on the performance of key players like Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, Doris Boaduwaa, Josephine Bonsu, and captain Portia Boakye, who have yet to make a significant impact.

Bjorkegren needs to unlock the potential of these vital players to boost their chances of progressing and ultimately realizing their dream of World Cup qualification. The pressure is immense as the Black Queens aim to secure a vital win and keep their tournament hopes alive.