Black Queens to Kick Off WAFCON 2026 Preparations with Four-Nation Pinks Ladies Cup in UAE

Ghana’s senior women’s national team, the Black Queens, are set to ramp up their preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 by participating in the Pinks Ladies Cup. This prestigious four-nation invitational tournament is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from February 28 to March 6, 2026. The move marks a significant step in the team's roadmap toward continental success, providing a high-level environment for the squad to test their mettle against diverse international opposition and build momentum ahead of the main tournament.

The tournament will feature a competitive lineup, with Ghana set to face off against Russia, Hong Kong, and Tanzania. For Head Coach Kim Lars Björkegren, the Pinks Ladies Cup serves as a critical scouting and tactical laboratory. The coach intends to use the matches to evaluate the current form of seasoned regulars while simultaneously integrating and assessing emerging talents. By facing teams from different confederations, the Black Queens aim to enhance their match fitness and refine their tactical discipline, ensuring the squad is battle-ready for the rigorous demands of the WAFCON tournament.

This preparatory stint highlights the collaborative efforts between the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the government, both of whom have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the Black Queens are adequately supported. The GFA's strategy focuses on providing the technical team with the necessary resources and international exposure to build a formidable squad capable of challenging for the title. With the official squad list expected to be announced in the coming weeks, the UAE tournament represents the first major milestone in Ghana's quest to restore its dominance in African women's football.