Alice Kusi Vows World Cup Return for Black Queens After WAFCON 2026 Quarter-Final Progression

The Black Queens of Ghana have reached a pivotal moment in their modern campaign, securing a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Mali in their final Group D fixture on Thursday, the national team has kept their ambitions alive for continental glory and, more significantly, a return to the global stage. Forward Alice Kusi has been vocal about the squad's mission, assuring Ghanaian football fans that the team is fully committed to securing a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, set to be hosted in Brazil.

This recent progression comes at a time of profound reflection for women’s football in Ghana, as the nation marks the 26th anniversary of its historic debut in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. On June 20, 1999, the Black Queens stepped onto the international stage for the first time at Foxboro Stadium in Massachusetts, USA, where they faced Australia. That landmark appearance established Ghana as a rising power in the women’s game and laid the foundation for future generations. While the team was once a regular contender, they have faced periods of difficulty and setbacks in more recent years, missing out on several subsequent editions of the global showpiece.

The current squad, however, appears determined to bridge the gap between their storied past and a successful future. The qualification for the WAFCON quarter-finals represents a crucial step in this journey, as the tournament serves as a primary pathway for African nations to reach the World Cup. Alice Kusi emphasized that the players are "fighting for the World Cup dream," viewing the 2027 tournament in Brazil as the ultimate destination for a team that is once again finding its rhythm on the continent.

As the Black Queens prepare for their quarter-final matchup, the blend of historical inspiration and future-focused resolve will be central to their performance. Having transitioned from the pioneers of 1999 to the ambitious contenders of 2026, the team carries the weight of a nation’s expectations. Success in the upcoming knockout rounds will not only bring them closer to the WAFCON trophy but will also serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ghana's first World Cup squad, proving that the spirit of 1999 remains alive in the quest for Brazil 2027.