Ghana’s women’s football received a powerful boost as the Black Queens secured a historic bronze medal at the 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) in Morocco—their first podium finish since 2016.

In a dramatic third-place showdown, the Queens stunned defending champions South Africa with a thrilling 2-1 victory, following a tough semifinal loss to arch-rivals and eventual winners Nigeria. The win not only ended an eight-year medal drought but also reawakened national pride in a team steadily rising from the shadows.

The Women’s Sports Association of Ghana (WOSPAG) led the chorus of praise. President Joyce Mahama hailed the players’ unwavering determination and grit. “They overcame trying moments and dethroned South Africa—a testament to their spirit,” she said, lauding the strategic acumen of Head Coach Nora Häuptle (referred to locally as Coach Lars). Mahama urged for the team’s long-term nurturing: “Maintain and package this team; their young talents are ready to fight for Ghana’s future glory.”

Beyond celebration, WOSPAG called for meaningful action—appropriate rewards, better structures, and increased investment in women’s football. “This is the time to build. These women have inspired a new generation,” Mahama stated.

WOSPAG members were among the crowd that welcomed the returning heroes at Kotoka International Airport on Monday, where cheers and patriotic songs echoed through the terminal.

With their eyes now set on the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers, the Black Queens march forward with renewed hope—and the nation firmly behind them.