The Black Queens’ failure to reach the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has triggered a wave of frustration among Ghanaian football fans, with many taking to social media to voice their disappointment.
Ghana’s hopes of progressing in the tournament were ended by Malawi’s Scorchers, who fought back to secure a 2-1 victory in a tense quarter-final encounter. The defeat also made Ghana’s route to the 2027 Women’s World Cup more difficult, with the team now required to go through the playoffs.
The Black Queens made a bright start and controlled much of the early exchanges, eventually taking the lead through Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah. She kept her composure to finish the opportunity and put Ghana in front.
Malawi, however, quickly responded. The Scorchers increased the pressure and were rewarded in the 12th minute when Temwa Chawinga found the equaliser, setting the stage for an increasingly competitive contest.
Ghana was unable to regain the advantage, and Malawi completed the comeback in the 79th minute. Rose Kadzere found the decisive goal to put the Scorchers ahead and send the Black Queens out of the competition.
The defeat drew criticism from sections of the fan base, with head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren facing much of the backlash. Some supporters questioned his tactics and accused him of failing to get the best out of the players, with some describing Ghana’s performance at times as “clueless”.
His late decision to make three substitutions at once also came under scrutiny, with critics arguing that the changes disrupted Ghana’s rhythm and allowed Malawi to find more space and control the game.
Other fans directed their frustration at the players themselves, questioning their level of commitment and arguing that Malawi showed a greater desire to secure qualification.
The result has also renewed calls for changes within the squad. Some supporters believe certain players have not done enough to justify their places in the national team and want younger talents allowed to help rebuild the Black Queens.
