2026 WAFCON: We are targeting a winning start against Cape Verde - Ghana coach Kim Lars Björkegren

Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has expressed confidence that his side is ready to begin its 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign on a winning note when they face Cape Verde on Wednesday.

Ghana will take on the tournament debutants at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. as the Black Queens begin their quest for continental success.

Speaking ahead of the Group stage opener, the Swedish tactician highlighted the progress his players have made during their training camp, insisting the squad is physically prepared for the challenge ahead.

“We have been in camp for some weeks, and we have improved our fitness level, and we are feeling we are ready for the upcoming game,” Björkegren said.

Despite expecting a difficult encounter against Cape Verde, the Ghana coach believes his team has what it takes to secure all three points if they execute their game plan.

“We expect a tough game, but we believe in ourselves, and if we do our things, we can start the tournament with a win. At least that’s our goal and target,” he added.

The Black Queens are returning to the continental showpiece with ambitions of making a strong impression and ending their long absence from the global stage.

Having last featured at the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2007, Ghana will be hoping a successful WAFCON campaign can earn them qualification for next year's World Cup.