Jennifer Cudjoe Confident Black Queens Will Rise to Mali Challenge in WAFCON Decider
Black Queens vice-captain Jennifer Cudjoe has expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to deliver when it matters most, insisting the squad is mentally prepared for Thursday’s decisive Women’s Africa Cup of Nations clash against Mali.
Ghana head into the final Group D fixture knowing that victory will secure a place in the quarter-finals, while a draw could also be enough depending on other results. The Black Queens suffered a setback against Cameroon in their previous outing, leaving both Ghana and Mali level on three points after two matches.
Despite the high stakes, Cudjoe believes the team’s experience will help them handle the occasion.
“I’m excited and I’m looking forward to it. I’m ready and everybody is ready. I just hope that we show up and do what we have to do,” she said.
The Brooklyn FC midfielder rejected suggestions that the pressure surrounding the game could affect the players, describing such moments as part of a footballer’s journey.
“Pressure is a privilege and I think as a player, we’ve been in a different stage in our career. We’ve been in this place before, so I don’t think there’s a lot of pressure. But we know what we have to do and we’re going to show up on Thursday and give everything we can.”
The Black Queens are targeting a return to the latter stages of the continental tournament as they also pursue qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Cudjoe acknowledged the challenge that Mali will present but stressed that Ghana’s objective remains clear.
“We know that we need to win. That’s what we’re going for so I don’t think there’s too much pressure. But we know that it’s not going to be an easy game as well.”
She also thanked Ghanaian supporters for their unwavering belief in the team, saying the players are determined to reward that faith with a strong performance.
“I mean we hear all Ghanaians, we know they love us, we know they expect a lot from us. They’ve watched us from last year and years before and they know what we can do. So of course now seeing what we can do, it’s obviously a lot.”
With a quarter-final berth on the line, the Black Queens will be hoping to translate their confidence into a winning display when they face Mali in a winner-takes-all encounter.
