Black Princesses urged to seize historic chance at Womens World Cup

CAF 2nd Vice President and Ghana Football Association president Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has visited the Black Princesses in Poland and challenged them to reach the knockout stage of the competition for the first time.

Ghana begin their campaign against Ecuador on 6 September 2026, with Korea Republic and France completing their group.

Simeon-Okraku used his visit to assure the squad that the Ghana Football Association would continue to support them, while insisting the team had the quality to progress beyond the group stage after seven previous appearances at the tournament.

The GFA president said the opening fixture would be particularly important because a positive start could set the tone for the rest of Ghana’s campaign.

“A few days ago, I was in a chat with the head coach and I promised that I was going to join him for what I think is the most important game for us, which is the first game.

“For me, the first game is the most important, because if we start well, chances are that we will do well. History tells us that this team has always been here.

“What I mean is, we’ve always been at this tournament for seven consecutive times. My inner faith is telling me that we have enough quality here to qualify from this group. I think so far, and by far, we have sacrificed a lot. You have been patient and gone through the troubles and the hassles. And you are here today.

“I believe that these sacrifices you have made, these investments you have made, will be repaid. Now, again, we are faced by three opponents Ecuador, Korea Republic and France. These three nations, believe me, are no better than us.

“And I believe we have enough quality in this team to win games in this group and to make it to the second round of the competition. Each one of you wants to be part of that.

“That after seven attempts this tournament is played every two years, so after 14 years, this is the 16th year now this group made it out of the group to the knockout stage. And this must happen.

“I think the team is ready. I think the technical team have done a good job. The players have conducted themselves well. We will continue to support you to ensure you get the best to be able to compete at this level.

“A few of you were here but didn’t make the squad and had to leave. This is that moment that you have to make them proud. This is that moment that you have to make them feel happy.”

Simeon-Okraku was accompanied at the training ground by Michael Osekre, Chief of Staff at the Ghana Football Association, and Jiji Alifoe, President of Dreams Football Club.

The Black Princesses have appeared at the tournament on seven consecutive occasions, but have yet to qualify from their group. Simeon-Okraku said the current squad had an opportunity to change that record and reward the work and sacrifices made during their preparations.

Ghana’s first match against Ecuador will be followed by games against Korea Republic and France. Progression to the second round would represent a landmark achievement for the Black Princesses after years of consistent participation in the competition.