The Black Queens, Ghana’s women’s national football team, have suffered their second defeat under coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren, losing to Senegal in a friendly match.
The Teranga Lionesses scored a late goal to win the game, marking the second defeat for the Black Queens in three games under Bjorkegren.
The defeat comes as a setback for the team, which is preparing for the delayed 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Black Queens had previously lost to Senegal in their first friendly match, with Evelyn Badu scoring the only goal of the game.
In the latest match, Ghana looked flat and attacked little in the opening 45 minutes, struggling to cope with Senegal’s physical strength.
Despite making some changes at halftime, including bringing on goalkeeper Kerrie McCarthy for Cynthia Konlan, the Black Queens were unable to break down Senegal’s defence.
Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah came close to scoring for Ghana, but her effort went wide of the post. Ernestina Abambila also made a crucial save to deny Senegal from taking the lead.
However, in the 90th minute, Senegal’s attack proved too strong, and they scored the winning goal.
The defeat means the Black Queens have picked up two losses from three games under Bjorkegren, with the other game resulting in a win.
The team will need to regroup and reassess their strategy ahead of the upcoming tournament.
Bjorkegren, a Swedish coach, was appointed as the new head coach of the Black Queens earlier this year.
Despite the setbacks, he remains optimistic about the team’s chances in the tournament.
In a previous interview, he stated that he believes the team has the potential to make a strong showing in the competition.
The Black Queens’ preparations for the tournament will continue with more friendly matches and training sessions.
The team will need to work on their physicality, attacking strategy, and defensive tactics to improve their chances of success in the tournament.
The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place in Morocco in July.
The Black Queens will be looking to make a strong impression in the tournament and bring home a medal for Ghana.
-By Nadia Ntiamoah
