Latest news with #KimBjörkegren
CAF
6 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Ghana coach Kim Björkegren: 'We're not favourites, but we can surprise everyone'
Kim Björkegren, a former coach in Sweden, China, and the United States, took charge of Ghana in early 2025 Ghana has never won the Women's Africa Cup of Nations despite reaching three finals (1998, 2002, 2006) The Swedish tactician is counting on tactical intelligence and team spirit to surprise the favourites in Morocco As Ghana prepares for the 2025 edition of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, all eyes are on Kim Lars Björkegren — the Swedish tactician leading the Black Queens into the continental showpiece. Appointed in early 2025, Björkegren brings with him nearly two decades of experience across Sweden, China, and the United States. The Black Queens, one of Africa's most respected women's football teams, have never won the WAFCON title despite their pedigree. Their best finish came in 1998, 2002, and 2006 — all runners-up positions. As the team heads into the tournament with renewed ambition, sat down with Björkegren for an exclusive conversation about his vision, challenges, and hopes for Ghana. Below is the full conversation: You've had coaching stints across Sweden, China, and the USA. What unique experience from those leagues are you bringing to the Black Queens setup? Kim Björkegren: I've coached in many footballing cultures, and I always try to take the best elements from each. In the U.S., the focus is on athleticism and transitions. In Europe, it's more about tactical and technical intelligence. I believe Ghana already has great technical ability. So, we're working on improving our tactical understanding and physical strength to make this group even more complete. What was the biggest motivation for accepting the role as head coach of Ghana's national women's team? The talent in Ghana is immense. The young players are particularly impressive. I saw a long-term project with real potential. Also, the opportunity to immerse myself in a new footballing culture was appealing. I'm really enjoying my time here. You're taking over from Nora Häuptle, who laid a strong foundation. How are you building upon what she left behind? We still have work to do, both on and off the pitch. Tactically, we need to be more organised, and fitness levels must improve. One of our long-term goals is to get our top players competing in stronger leagues. We've had very limited training sessions so far, but with every camp, we grow stronger. Ghana has a rich history in WAFCON but has not lifted the trophy yet. How much pressure do you feel heading into this tournament with such expectations? Ghana hasn't won the title, and the last final was in 2006. So we're not among the favourites. But I believe we can be a strong underdog. If we stick to the game plan and have a good day, we can beat any team. The Black Queens were impressive in the qualifiers. What key areas are you focusing on as the team prepares for the tournament in July? Preparation is crucial. We're rotating the squad, testing new formations, and evaluating players both locally and abroad. It's all about getting the best squad possible for Morocco. In your opinion, what are Ghana's biggest strengths heading into WAFCON 2025? Our depth is our strength. We may not have global superstars like other teams, but we have many good players. Like PSG's recent Champions League success without big-name stars, we can thrive as a collective unit. How would you describe the team's mentality and spirit since you took charge of the squad earlier this year? The group has a strong bond off the pitch, and that shows in training. There's still room to improve in fitness and intensity, but the team spirit is excellent. That fighting spirit will carry us far. You've coached in very different football cultures. How does Ghana compare in terms of talent, passion, and work ethic? The passion here is incredible. The players love the game. But there's still a need to educate them about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. With the right guidance, more Ghanaian players will break into top leagues. Ghana last reached the WAFCON final in 2006. What will it take this time to go one step further and win the title? It will take belief, hard work, a little bit of luck, and a clear game plan. We have to take it one match at a time and stay mentally focused. Are there any standout young talents in this squad you believe could make a major impact at the tournament? Definitely. Stella is already in the NWSL at just 19. Princess Marfo is 21, and Doris Boaduwaa, though slightly older, has the potential to be one of the tournament's top scorers. Watch out for them. You've had limited time with the squad. How have you adapted your style to get the best out of the players in such a short period? It's been a learning curve. We've had just a few full sessions, so I've focused on squad rotation and testing players in different roles. It's affected us in the short term, but it's necessary for long-term readiness. Finally, what is your message to Ghanaians as the Black Queens head into WAFCON 2025? It's an honour to lead this team. We're working hard to make Ghana proud. With your support and a bit of luck, I believe we can have a memorable summer together.
CAF
17-06-2025
- Sport
- CAF
'We're one family': Ghana's Adubea on team unity, inspiration and WAFCON goals
A key figure for the Black Queens, Princella Adubea is set to take part in another Women's Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana, this time as a leader within a squad that has come of age. The striker reflects on her role as a mentor, the team's evolution, and the influence of head coach Kim Björkegren, as Ghana sets its sights on a long-awaited first continental title. In an interview with she speaks about the strength of the group, her mission to inspire young girls, and a promise: 'to bring the trophy home.' With Ghana's Black Queens gearing up for the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, experienced striker Princella Adubea remains a central figure in the team's ambitions. A veteran of past editions and a role model to younger players, Adubea brings a blend of maturity, experience and attacking flair to the squad. In this exclusive interview with she opens up about the evolution of the Black Queens, the impact of head coach Kim Björkegren, and her personal drive to bring glory to Ghana. She also discusses how the team has evolved into a united force, her role as a leader, and what representing the national team truly means to her. Here's what she had to say ahead of the continental showpiece: : You've been a part of this Black Queens setup for several years now. How does this current squad compare to previous ones you've played with? Princella Adubea : First of all, thank you for this opportunity. I don't think the differences are that huge. In the previous squads, I was one of the youngest and had the chance to learn a lot from the experienced players. Now, I'm one of the oldest and the longest-serving, so I've taken on the responsibility of mentoring the younger ones, which I really enjoy. Ghana is blessed with a lot of female talent, and that remains consistent. What has the experience of working under Coach Kim Björkegren been like, and how has his approach impacted your individual game? It's been an amazing experience. He's very demanding, and I think that helps bring out the best in each player. Ghana missed out on the last WAFCON. What does it mean to you personally to be back at the tournament representing your country? WAFCON is the biggest women's football competition in Africa. It's always a great opportunity to play on such a huge stage, and I'm super excited to represent Ghana again. You've played in different countries and environments. How do those experiences shape your mentality heading into a major competition like WAFCON? It's always a great feeling to represent your country. Out of so many female footballers, to be chosen to play at such a big tournament is a huge honour. Women's football is loved by many, and we know a lot of people will be watching us. Q5: What areas do you think the team has improved most in recent months? I think the unity in the team has improved a lot. Most of us have been together for a while, and that helps make integration smoother when new players join. Q6: The Black Queens have not won the WAFCON despite coming close several times. What gives you confidence that this squad can go all the way in Morocco? I believe in my teammates and the work we've done in training. Our preparation, our coaches and our belief will push us forward. As one of the more experienced players in the squad, how do you guide and support the younger talents coming through? It's very important to lead by example through my work. I always make myself available to the younger ones in case they need support. We live together like a family, and sometimes it's hard to even tell who's new or old. Which teams do you consider the toughest opponents Ghana could face at WAFCON 2025?Every team at the AFCON has earned their place, so each game will be tough. But we have belief in ourselves and what we bring to the competition. Can you share what goes through your mind when you wear the national team jersey and hear the Ghanaian anthem before a game? I always want to give my best for the national team because I love Ghana and our fans are amazing. They deserve our very best. What specific goals have you set for yourself during this tournament—both as an individual and as a team player? I've set my mind to give my best so we can win the tournament. Whatever it takes to keep myself in top shape, I'm ready to do it. How important is it for you and the team to inspire young girls across Ghana through your performances? It's very important. When I check my social media, I see people who post about me and send encouraging messages. We definitely inspire many, especially the young ones who dream of playing for Ghana one day. Finally, what's your message to Ghanaians ahead of WAFCON 2025 as you prepare to represent the nation once again on the continental stage? My message is simple: keep supporting us, keep praying for us. We promise to give our best and bring the trophy home. Thank you.
