Black Queens to proceed with Pink Ladies Cup tournament amid tensions in Middle East

The Black Queens of Ghana will press on in the ongoing Pink Ladies Cup in the United Arab Emirates, despite escalating regional tensions in the Middle East, the team’s Media Officer, Matilda Dimedo, has confirmed.

The unrest disrupted the squad’s training schedule following their 4-0 opening victory over Hong Kong on Saturday. Dimedo told Joy Sports that the team has maintained constant contact with both tournament organisers and Ghana’s Consulate in the UAE.

Officials from Ghana’s diplomatic mission visited the team on Monday morning, offering assurances of government support and the players’ safety. While initial security concerns restricted access to the training pitch, the squad has adapted by focusing on indoor gym sessions to preserve fitness levels.

Dimedo expressed optimism that the Black Queens would return to full training on Monday ahead of their second match against Russia. She added that the situation on the ground has eased since Sunday, when smoke was visible across the skyline, and that local life has largely returned to normal, helping reduce anxiety within the camp.

The team’s stay remains contingent on regional airspace conditions. Dimedo explained that their departure plan is flexible: if the airspace clears before their final game against Tanzania, an early exit is possible; otherwise, the team will finish the tournament and depart when it is safe to do so.

The Pink Ladies Cup serves as an important build-up for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). After the tournament, the Black Queens will face Ivory Coast in their final preparatory match before WAFCON kicks off later this month.