Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has paid glowing tribute to captain Portia Boakye, describing the experienced defender as an invaluable leader following Ghana’s qualification to the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Boakye has played a key role in guiding the Black Queens through the group stage, helping Ghana collect four points from matches against Cape Verde, Cameroon and Mali to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Speaking about his captain, the Swedish tactician praised Boakye’s leadership qualities and the influence she has both on and off the pitch.
“She means so much. She’s like the extra arm for me, really helpful. Sometimes I don’t need to say too much. She can do it for me. And that’s the kind of captain that you want,” Björkegren said.
The coach’s comments underline the trust he places in the experienced defender, whose leadership has helped keep the squad united throughout the tournament as Ghana continue their pursuit of continental success.
With the Black Queens now through to the quarter-finals, Boakye is expected to remain at the heart of Ghana’s quest for a place in the semi-finals, a result that would also secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.