Ghana’s Black Queens are one step from the Women’s AFCON final and for head coach Kim Bjorkegren, the must anticipated clash against hosts Morocco is more than a semifinal. It’s personal.
The showdown in Rabat marks Ghana’s first appearance in the last four since 2016. A narrow win over Algeria in a tense penalty shootout earned them this chance.
Bjorkegren is under no illusions about the challenge ahead. Morocco, finalists in the last edition, have home support and form on their side. But the Swedish coach believes Ghana can find cracks in the Atlas Lionesses’ armour.
“My first game for Ghana as head coach was against Morocco,” Bjorkegren recalled. “We had chances to win that game. They have some weaknesses as well, so we just need to push hard there.”
That January loss, a 1-0 defeat still lingers. But it also gave Bjorkegren insight into Morocco’s structure and vulnerability. Now, with momentum on their side, he hopes to turn that knowledge into triumph.
Ghana’s journey to the semis has been gritty. Their quarterfinal against Algeria ended 0-0 after 120 minutes, but the Queens held their nerve to win 4-2 on penalties. The result was a release of emotion after years of falling short.
The winner of this game will face either South Africa or Nigeria in the final. Both teams carry pedigree, but Ghana’s focus remains locked on Morocco.
Bjorkegren is hoping to create a moment to remember. “It’s the game to play or for me to coach,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to this game and it’s going to be a good memory, hopefully.”
