Black Queens midfielder Evelyn Badu has promised Ghanaian fans that the team will rise to the occasion in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, declaring that the players are determined to deliver as they continue their quest for a place at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Badu pledged to help Ghana secure qualification from Group D with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Mali, a result that booked a last-eight showdown with Malawi. The midfielder scored Ghana’s opening goal and played a key role in the Black Queens’ progression to the knockout stage.
While pleased with the achievement, Badu admitted the players had hoped to finish the group stage with all three points.
“We’re really happy. Although we wanted to win so badly, at least we got a point, and it’s gotten us through to the quarterfinals, which is really important for us. So, we’re really happy and looking forward to the next game.”
The Black Queens now face Malawi in a winner-takes-all encounter, with a place in the semi-finals and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil at stake. Although Ghana defeated Malawi 4-0 in a pre-tournament friendly, Badu insisted that result will have no bearing on the upcoming clash.
“We’ve played them before, but I think football has different ways. We’re not going to look at the fact that we scored against them. Now it’s something different, and we’re going in with a different approach and winning is just what we’re looking forward to.”
Badu also expressed pride at scoring when Ghana needed it most, describing qualification as a reward for the team’s hard work throughout the group stage.
“I’m really happy that I took it for the team, for the nation Ghana as well. And now we are on the next stage.”
The former Black Princesses star reserved a special message for Ghanaian supporters, urging them to continue backing the team as they prepare for their biggest match of the tournament.
“I always say they should keep on supporting us and keep on their prayers and we’re going to deliver.”
Badu also highlighted the positive atmosphere within the Black Queens camp, saying every player has contributed to the team’s progress.
“Everyone was ready, not only me, but we are different people, and everyone has their way of showing it.”
