Black Queens seek Mali test to book WAFCON spot as Cudjoe warns of tough battle ahead

Ghana's Black Queens will face a stern examination when they take on Mali in a crucial Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying fixture, with midfielder Jennifer Cudjoe signalling that her team understands the magnitude of the task but remains determined to secure qualification.

Cudjoe's comments come ahead of what promises to be a competitive encounter between two West African nations competing for a spot in the continental tournament. The midfielder acknowledged that conditions have shifted since previous campaigns, suggesting that Ghana cannot rely on past success but must adapt to new competitive realities in African women's football.

Mali poses fresh challenge for Queens

The upcoming match represents a pivotal moment in Ghana's qualification journey. Mali, as fellow ECOWAS members and traditional African football powerhouses in their own right, will present a well-organised and technically sound opposition. Cudjoe's warning that 'it won't be the same as last year' reflects the evolving standard of women's football across West Africa, where smaller national federations have invested more resources into women's programmes and coaching structures.

For the Black Queens, this fixture is part of a broader qualification campaign that will determine whether Ghana secures one of the limited spots available at the WAFCON tournament. With continental football providing critical exposure and development opportunities for female players, qualification carries both immediate and long-term significance for the national programme.

Why it matters for Ghana

Women's football in Ghana has grown considerably over the past decade, with the Black Queens establishing themselves as a competitive force at regional and continental level. Success in WAFCON qualification tournaments not only delivers pride and national recognition—it also opens doors for Ghanaian female footballers to gain international experience and attract attention from overseas clubs.

The Black Queens' performance against Mali will be scrutinised by Ghana's growing women's football community. Young girls and emerging talents look to these national team fixtures for inspiration, whilst domestic league interest depends partly on the visibility and success of the senior national squad. A qualification run would boost investment and interest in women's football infrastructure across Ghana.

Additionally, regional competition against Mali demonstrates the depth of talent available in West African women's football. As WAFCON expands and more nations develop their women's programmes, Ghana must continue to evolve tactically and improve player development pathways to maintain competitiveness. Cudjoe's message suggests the technical staff are acutely aware that complacency is no longer an option.

Looking ahead

The Black Queens will need to balance confidence with respect for Mali's capabilities. Cudjoe's balanced assessment—acknowledging difficulty whilst expressing readiness—reflects a team that appears to have learned from previous campaigns and is approaching qualification with maturity and professionalism.

Ghanaian football fans will be hoping the Queens can deliver a victory and move closer to WAFCON qualification, continuing a legacy of competitive female representation at Africa's premier women's tournament.