The Ghana senior women’s national football team the Black Queens have safely returned home after winning the Pink Ladies Cup in the United Arab Emirates, concluding a memorable yet tense international outing.
The team touched down in Accra over the weekend following a coordinated evacuation from Dubai, after regional tensions disrupted the tournament schedule. Despite the circumstances, the Black Queens left the Middle East with the trophy, finishing top of the standings after an impressive campaign that saw them score eight goals without conceding in two matches.
Under the guidance of head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren, Ghana delivered two commanding performances in the four-nation competition.
The Black Queens opened their campaign with a convincing victory over the Hong Kong women’s national football team, setting the tone for what would become a dominant tournament run.
Their most emphatic display came against the Russia women’s national football team at the Al Hamriya Sports Club Stadium. Coach Bjorkegren introduced several changes to his starting lineup, bringing in players such as Alice Kusi, Grace Asantewaa, Stella Nyamekye, and Josephine Bonsu.
The tactical adjustments paid off early. Nyamekye opened the scoring in the eighth minute after a well-worked move involving Doris Boaduwaa. Boaduwaa soon doubled Ghana’s advantage with a stunning volley before adding a second later in the half following a rapid counterattack, sending the Black Queens into halftime with a commanding 3–0 lead.
Substitute Ajegipina Zakaria put the finishing touches on the performance with a late fourth goal, sealing a resounding 4–0 victory and effectively securing the tournament title.
While Ghana’s performances on the pitch were dominant, the competition itself was overshadowed by escalating geopolitical tensions in the region following missile strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
The security concerns created uncertainty around the remaining fixtures, and tournament organizers eventually cancelled the final round of matches. Ghana’s scheduled game against Tanzania women’s national football team was among those called off.
Despite the disruptions, Ghana were officially crowned champions due to their superior record two wins, eight goals scored, and none conceded.
Amid the heightened tensions, officials from the Ghana Embassy in the United Arab Emirates visited the Black Queens’ camp to reassure players and staff of their safety. The delegation commended the team for maintaining their focus and representing Ghana with distinction despite the uncertain situation.
Working closely with the Ghana Football Association, the embassy facilitated arrangements to ensure the team’s safe departure from Dubai and return to Accra.
The successful outing provides a major morale boost for the Black Queens as they intensify preparations for upcoming international competitions, including the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
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