Ghana’s Black Queens Grace Asantewaa and Portia Boakye have been named in the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 Best XI, following their standout performances during the tournament held in Morocco.
The duo played pivotal roles in Ghana’s impressive run, which resulted in a bronze medal finish, their first podium appearance since 2016.
Asantewaa, who operated as Ghana’s midfield engine, was instrumental throughout the tournament. One of her most dominant performance came in the quarter-final clash against Algeria, where she dictated the tempo for over 90 minutes, linking up seamlessly with teammate Jennifer Cudjoe to control transitions and launch attacks.
Head coach Kim Lars Björkegren praised her consistency and mental strength, especially noting that she was never substituted, even during matches that extended into extra time.
Ghana led the tournament in expected goals created (6.4 xG), a stat that highlights Asantewaa’s crucial role in generating scoring opportunities.
Team captain Portia Boakye was the heart of Ghana’s defensive unit and a key leadership figure on and off the pitch. She started in every match, anchoring a back line that featured Cynthia Findiib, Comfort Yeboah, and Susan Ama Duah.
Boakye was also involved in Ghana’s attack during set-pieces, most notably delivering a dangerous corner that nearly led to a goal in the third-place playoff against South Africa. Her composure, tactical discipline, and experience were invaluable throughout the tournament.
The WAFCON best xi includes
Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)
Defenders: Michelle Alozie (Nigeria), Bambanani Mbane (South Africa), Portia Boakye (Ghana), Karabo Dhlamini (South Africa)
Midfielders: Grace Asantewaa (Ghana), Refiloe Jane (South Africa), Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco)
Forwards: Rashidat Ajibade (Nigeria), Ibtissam Jraidi (Morocco), Esther Okoronkwo (Nigeria)
Their inclusion in the CAF Team of the Tournament featuring standout names from Nigeria, South Africa, and Morocco cements their place among Africa’s elite women’s footballers.
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Story by: Simon Owusu Prempeh|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Pius Asack
