Sports
Coach Kim Lars throws weight behind Black Queens’ AFCON ambition ahead of South Africa clash
As the Black Queens prepare to kick off their TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, head coach Kim Lars Björkegren faced the media in Morocco on Sunday ahead our Group C opener against reigning champions South Africa on Monday.
Coach Kim Lars presser is one that echoes belief, resilience, and ambition. He made it clear that pressure is not something he allows to derail his focus.
“For me, it’s very clear: if you’re a coach at this level, pressure can’t exist. You can be a little nervous, but you have to control what you can control.” he said.
Kim emphasized the importance of leadership and trust, noting that in moments of adversity, it’s crucial for his players to believe in his vision. “As a coach, I need to show my players that they can trust me, especially in difficult situations, and I think they do.”
Ghana goes into the tournament not as one of the favorites, but Kim embraces the “dark horse” label, believing it fuels the team’s desire to surprise.
“Of course, we know we’re a bit of an underdog, but I know that we have the quality in this group to beat all the teams in this tournament.”
His excitement to lead Ghana at WAFCON is deeply rooted in a lifelong dream. Recalling his youth, Kim shared how he was once captivated by African football tournaments from his living room couch.
He said, “Since I was a young guy, lying on the sofa watching AFCON, I always thought this is a cool tournament. Now, I can be part of it, and I’m super excited.”
Preparation hasn’t been ideal, with limited training sessions leading to a heavier reliance on friendly matches. “We’ve grown a lot over the last month, physically and tactically. I think the players would agree. We’re in much better shape than we were a month ago.”
“Ghana has so much talent; it’s in the DNA. Add 5% of the Swedish mentality, and you have a team that’s not just good in Africa, but good in the world.”
When asked about the blend of youth and experience in the squad, Kim was quick to dismiss the idea that age would be a determining factor. “We won’t win or lose because of age. The best players will be on the pitch, and hopefully the best team will win.” he added
With confidence, a deep respect for African football, and a clear belief in his squad, Coach Kim Lars Björkegren and the Black Queens are heading into the tournament not just to compete but to make a statement.
The Black Queens will open their Group C campaign against reigning Champions South Africa at 16:00 GMT in Oudja on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Sports
World Cup Qualifiers: Ghana beats Mali to boost qualification hopes
The Ghana Black Stars on Monday evening secured a vital 1–0 win over Mali in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a result that strengthens their chances of booking a ticket to the 2026 tournament.
The Match
The only goal of the game came in the 52nd minute when Alexander Djiku powered home a header to put Ghana ahead at the charged Accra Sports Stadium.
Ghana dominated possession and created more chances, with Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus troubling the Malian defense.
Coach Otto Addo’s side managed the game well, with substitutes, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Iñaki Williams and Joseph Paintsil helping to protect the narrow lead.
Mali pushed for an equalizer but Ghana’s defense held firm until the final whistle.
What the win means
The victory takes Ghana to the top of their qualifying group, giving them a strong advantage in the race to secure a direct World Cup spot.
It also boosts team confidence as the Black Stars aim to make their fifth appearance at the global showpiece.
Games Remaining and Qualification Path
Ghana now has two games left in the qualifiers. To qualify directly, they must finish first in their group.
If they end up second, they will have to compete in the CAF play-offs to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
About the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The next FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026, and run until July 19, 2026. For the first time in history, the tournament will feature 48 teams, an expansion from the usual 32.
It will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches spread across 16 cities.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Sports
Black Stars face Mali test in FIFA World Cup qualifier – Preview
With only two rounds left, the Black Stars lead the table but can’t afford slip-ups against a Mali side still firmly in contention for a top two finish.
Ghana entered the September window with momentum, but a late setback against Chad pegged the team back in N’Djamena.
The Black Stars looked in control for large parts of the match, with Jordan Ayew’s first-half strike seemingly setting the team on course for a routine win. However, missed opportunities left the door open for Chad, who snatched a dramatic equalizer in the 89th minute.
The 1-1 draw cost Ghana the chance to extend their cushion at the top, though results elsewhere kept them three points clear of Madagascar and four above Mali.
For Mali, after a stop-start campaign that included too many draws, the Eagles reignited their qualification hopes with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Comoros last time out – putting them firmly in contention.
Dorgeles Nene, Kamory Doumbia, and Lassana Coulibaly all scored in a display that showcased both cutting-edge and balance, qualities Tom Saintfiet’s men have often lacked in recent games.
The visitors have proven difficult to beat, losing just once in seven outings, but their three draws have left them playing catch-up. Their defensive stability is impressive, with only four goals conceded so far, boasting one of the stingiest backlines in the group.
What Saintfiet now demands is greater ruthlessness in attack, where Doumbia and El Bilal Touré have often flattered to deceive despite flashes of brilliance.
With the gap to second-placed Madagascar now three points, Mali knows victory in Accra would put them firmly back in the race for automatic qualification. Otto Addo’s side are still well-placed to qualify for back-to-back World Cups, but sharper finishing and greater control in midfield will be needed to avoid more late frustrations.
Home form has been a strong foundation for Ghana’s campaign, with the Black Stars unbeaten in Accra so far in the qualifying series following wins against Madagascar, Central African Republic, and Chad.
Defensively, Ghana have conceded just six goals in seven games. With the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew supporting Antoine Semenyo and Iñaki Williams in attack, this Ghana side has plenty of quality to punish any opponent.
Both teams arrive with plenty to play for – Ghana aiming to consolidate their lead and Mali looking to force their way back into contention.
Ghana’s firepower, especially in Accra, makes them favorites, but Mali’s defensive organization and recent attacking revival mean this could be a far tighter contest than the standings suggest.
The match will take place at the Accra Sports Stadium at 7 p.m. on Monday, September 8, 2025.
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