Latest news with #Björkegren
CAF
5 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Björkegren hails Black Queens for fighting spirit
Published: Monday, 14 July 2025 Ghana controlled their destiny in a solid performance that saw them find the back of the net an impressive four times to make light work of Tanzania in a do or die matchup that ensured they booked a place to the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies WAFCON 2024 in Morocco. A standout 18 shots at goal, nine on target and four goals saw Kim Lars Björkegren's side dance, ululate and hi-five each other at the full-time whistle in Berkane on Monday night. The Black Queens, who felt that they dominated both their games against Ghana and Mali statistically despite amassing a point from a possible six in Group C, finally smelt the coffee. Their resilience, physicality and camaraderie were exceptional on the day. 'I am just really proud of the girls. Today, we followed the game plan a little bit more. I always believed that we would win this game and make it to the quarterfinals. I understand the impact of the result. It is the knockout stages, and we continue to take it one game at a time,' Björkegren said after the 4-1 win against Tanzania. 'Ghana missed the knockout stages the last time that they played [in 2018 at home] and we have now made it past the group stages. The result is very important to us. We shall take it all in now because the players deserve this. They showed that they can stay true to our style and win.' Teamwork rules A team that works together, stays together. Throughout their two games that not only tested their character and self-belief, the Black Queens fought for each other. No single time did a player attack another for a misplaced pass or a tackle that led to a goal or a warning or booking from the referee. They stood together in good and in bad. It is this spirit that had Björkegren in high spirits at the halftime break when the score stood at 1-1 because he anticipated that his side would raise the tempo when the second half began. Star player Evelyn Badu, who started the first two games, came off the bench after Princella Abudea and Princess Marfo were given the nod to start ahead of her. Her body language when she ran onto the pitch visibly showed that she was there to build on what the duo had done thus far. And it is that sisterhood that displayed the understanding of the objective for the team and the importance of the eventual result. The suspended Doris Boaduwaa was on her feet the entire game in the stands supporting her teammates and almost lost her voice. In the end what mattered was the qualification. 'We played as a team and this has been important for us on and off the pitch,' Björkegren said as a tribute to his team who will face Algeria in the WAFCON 2024 quarterfinals on July 19 at 5pm (local time) at the Berkane Stadium in the Oriental Province of Morocco.
IOL News
07-07-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Ghana sound Banyana Banyana warning – We're not favourites, but we can surprise everyone
Ghana Women's coach Kim Lars Björkegren believes the Black Queens have the capacity to surprise at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations this month. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix South Africa's national women's team, Banyana Banyana, will begin their quest to defend their WAFCON crown in their opening match against Ghana's Black Queens on Monday at the impressive 35 000-seater Honour Stadium in Rabat. Currently ranked 54th in the world, Banyana made history in 2022 by clinching their first Women's Africa Cup of Nations title, defeating hosts Morocco 2-1 in a dramatic final. This landmark achievement placed them among the continent's elite, alongside only Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, the other nations to have previously claimed the title. Entering this year's tournament on a remarkable run of seven consecutive wins, Banyana are widely considered early favourites to lift the trophy once more. A solid defensive unit combined with a prolific attack led by seasoned campaigners has helped them refine a well-balanced tactical approach. Meanwhile, Ghana's Black Queens — under the guidance of Swedish coach Kim Lars Björkegren — are looking to revive past glories. On the eve of the Group C encounter, Björkegren said: 'We're not favourites, but we can surprise everyone.' The Black Queens boast a proud history in the competition, having reached the final three times — in 1998, 2002 and 2006 — only to fall short on each occasion, all against Nigeria. Björkegren, who brings nearly two decades of international coaching experience, emphasised tactical intelligence and cohesion as vital ingredients for success. 'Our depth is our strength,' he explained, noting that while the team may lack global superstars, their collective effort could be their competitive edge. He likened Ghana's approach to recent global trends, where unified teams have succeeded without relying on individual brilliance, instead thriving on togetherness and shared purpose. As the squad prepares in Morocco, a palpable sense of camaraderie is evident. Björkegren praised the harmony within the group, saying: 'That fighting spirit will carry us far.' He encouraged his players to channel their passion for the game while sharpening their skills to meet the demands of elite competition. To realise their ambitions, the Black Queens will need belief, discipline, relentless work ethic, and perhaps a bit of luck — especially in an opening fixture against the reigning champions. In addition to Ghana, Banyana Banyana will also face formidable Group C opponents in Tanzania and Mali. This year's WAFCON carries higher stakes than ever, with the prize pool doubled. The champions will not only earn continental bragging rights but also walk away with a substantial R17 million, courtesy of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The financial incentive is expected to inspire peak performances across all participating nations. Banyana's squad is bolstered by a blend of experienced veterans and emerging stars, eager to prove themselves against Ghana — a side historically regarded as one of Africa's powerhouses in the women's game. As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Rabat, where South Africa and Ghana meet in what promises to be a fiery opening to Group C.
CAF
23-06-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Ghana coach Kim Björkegren: 'We're not favourites, but we can surprise everyone'
Kim Björkegren, a former coach in Sweden, China, and the United States, took charge of Ghana in early 2025 Ghana has never won the Women's Africa Cup of Nations despite reaching three finals (1998, 2002, 2006) The Swedish tactician is counting on tactical intelligence and team spirit to surprise the favourites in Morocco As Ghana prepares for the 2025 edition of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, all eyes are on Kim Lars Björkegren — the Swedish tactician leading the Black Queens into the continental showpiece. Appointed in early 2025, Björkegren brings with him nearly two decades of experience across Sweden, China, and the United States. The Black Queens, one of Africa's most respected women's football teams, have never won the WAFCON title despite their pedigree. Their best finish came in 1998, 2002, and 2006 — all runners-up positions. As the team heads into the tournament with renewed ambition, sat down with Björkegren for an exclusive conversation about his vision, challenges, and hopes for Ghana. Below is the full conversation: You've had coaching stints across Sweden, China, and the USA. What unique experience from those leagues are you bringing to the Black Queens setup? Kim Björkegren: I've coached in many footballing cultures, and I always try to take the best elements from each. In the U.S., the focus is on athleticism and transitions. In Europe, it's more about tactical and technical intelligence. I believe Ghana already has great technical ability. So, we're working on improving our tactical understanding and physical strength to make this group even more complete. What was the biggest motivation for accepting the role as head coach of Ghana's national women's team? The talent in Ghana is immense. The young players are particularly impressive. I saw a long-term project with real potential. Also, the opportunity to immerse myself in a new footballing culture was appealing. I'm really enjoying my time here. You're taking over from Nora Häuptle, who laid a strong foundation. How are you building upon what she left behind? We still have work to do, both on and off the pitch. Tactically, we need to be more organised, and fitness levels must improve. One of our long-term goals is to get our top players competing in stronger leagues. We've had very limited training sessions so far, but with every camp, we grow stronger. Ghana has a rich history in WAFCON but has not lifted the trophy yet. How much pressure do you feel heading into this tournament with such expectations? Ghana hasn't won the title, and the last final was in 2006. So we're not among the favourites. But I believe we can be a strong underdog. If we stick to the game plan and have a good day, we can beat any team. The Black Queens were impressive in the qualifiers. What key areas are you focusing on as the team prepares for the tournament in July? Preparation is crucial. We're rotating the squad, testing new formations, and evaluating players both locally and abroad. It's all about getting the best squad possible for Morocco. In your opinion, what are Ghana's biggest strengths heading into WAFCON 2025? Our depth is our strength. We may not have global superstars like other teams, but we have many good players. Like PSG's recent Champions League success without big-name stars, we can thrive as a collective unit. How would you describe the team's mentality and spirit since you took charge of the squad earlier this year? The group has a strong bond off the pitch, and that shows in training. There's still room to improve in fitness and intensity, but the team spirit is excellent. That fighting spirit will carry us far. You've coached in very different football cultures. How does Ghana compare in terms of talent, passion, and work ethic? The passion here is incredible. The players love the game. But there's still a need to educate them about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. With the right guidance, more Ghanaian players will break into top leagues. Ghana last reached the WAFCON final in 2006. What will it take this time to go one step further and win the title? It will take belief, hard work, a little bit of luck, and a clear game plan. We have to take it one match at a time and stay mentally focused. Are there any standout young talents in this squad you believe could make a major impact at the tournament? Definitely. Stella is already in the NWSL at just 19. Princess Marfo is 21, and Doris Boaduwaa, though slightly older, has the potential to be one of the tournament's top scorers. Watch out for them. You've had limited time with the squad. How have you adapted your style to get the best out of the players in such a short period? It's been a learning curve. We've had just a few full sessions, so I've focused on squad rotation and testing players in different roles. It's affected us in the short term, but it's necessary for long-term readiness. Finally, what is your message to Ghanaians as the Black Queens head into WAFCON 2025? It's an honour to lead this team. We're working hard to make Ghana proud. With your support and a bit of luck, I believe we can have a memorable summer together.
