Ghana’s Black Queens begin their quest for redemption this evening when they lock horns with reigning champions South Africa in their Group C opener at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Kick-off is at 6pm GMT at the Stade Municipal d'Oujda, and all eyes will be on the Ghanaians as they look to reassert themselves among Africa’s elite.

While the ultimate prize may be within the sights of many, the Queens’ ambition this time is less about silverware and more about restoration — of pride, of pedigree, and of a once-feared status in African women’s football.

Under the guidance of new Swedish head coach, Kim Björkegren, Ghana enter the tournament with a bold but measured outlook: rebuild with a youthful core and reignite belief in the Black Queens project.

New leadership 

Björkegren’s squad is brimming with youthful talent, much of it drawn from Ghana’s U-20 set-up. Of the 24 players named, only four — captain Portia Boakye, Alice Kusi, Sherifatu Sumaila, and Grace Asantewaa — have previous WAFCON experience.

The rest, though short on senior tournament exposure, boast global experience from junior-level World Cups and appear eager to rise to the occasion.

The Swede has had just six months to shape his squad, and the pre-tournament friendlies have offered a mixed picture. A promising 3-1 win over Malawi was quickly followed by defensive meltdowns in defeats to Benin (4-2) and Nigeria (3-1), exposing vulnerabilities that South Africa will be keen to exploit.

Still, Björkegren remains optimistic. “We are not one of the favourites, but I know that we have the quality to beat all of the teams in this group,” he told reporters.

“We’re better physically and tactically than we were a month ago. I’m looking forward to the tournament and I believe we can be successful.”

South Africa wounded 

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana arrive in Morocco as the team to beat, albeit with a reshuffled squad.

Missing nine players from the side that captured the 2022 title, Coach Desiree Ellis is navigating a period of transition.

But with experience, pedigree and tactical discipline still in abundance, the defending champions will not be easily rattled.

Their 2022 triumph was built on organisation, rapid transitions, and clinical finishing — attributes that could test Ghana’s unsteady backline, especially given the six goals conceded in just three recent friendlies.

Tonight’s clash promises an intriguing tactical battle: Björkegren’s possession-based build-up against Ellis’ high-tempo, counter-attacking system.

Ghana’s midfield will be key, with Grace Asantewaa likely tasked with anchoring the centre and shielding the back four. For South Africa, attacking spearhead Jermaine Seoposenwe and the experienced Thembi Kgatlana could pose constant threats.

Yet, history offers Ghana a psychological edge. The Black Queens have dominated past meetings, with five wins, two draws, and just one defeat against Banyana Banyana.

That record, coupled with the underdog spirit coursing through the current squad, could fuel a fearless performance.

“We are going into this game as underdogs,” said assistant captain and first-choice goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan Findib. “It’s a great opportunity for us.

Many of us are playing in our first AFCON and we are determined to take it game by game. We want to help Ghana reclaim her glory.”

High stakes in Group C

Group C is no easy route, with Mali and Tanzania also in the mix. Every point counts, and Ghana’s second game against Mali in Berkane could prove decisive.

But for now, the focus is squarely on toppling the champions — a win that would signal that the Queens are not just rebuilding, but roaring back.