Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has heaped praise on his captain, Portia Boakye, for her outstanding leadership and fighting spirit following Ghana’s qualification for the quarterfinals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The Swedish tactician believes the captain has played a vital role in the team’s progress, providing leadership both on and off the pitch while helping him communicate his ideas to the players.

Björkegren described Boakye as his “extra arm”, highlighting the trust he has in her ability to lead the team and take responsibility during matches.

“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,” he said.

The coach also singled out her work rate and mentality, praising the determination she displays during matches.

According to Björkegren, her willingness to fight for every ball and put her body on the line has had a positive influence on the rest of the squad.

“But also, I mean, the most important is how she’s leading on the pitch with her fighting spirit. I mean, she’s brutal. I mean, she really puts her body there. And she’s a real fighter.”

Björkegren further stressed that the captain has earned her teammates’ respect through her performances and leadership.

He pointed to the squad’s reaction when she was named Player of the Match in one of Ghana’s group-stage games as evidence of the strong bond she shares with her teammates.

“And the way she’s playing, of course, everybody needs to respect her, and everybody does. And as you said, you can see when she is the player of the match that everybody is so happy for her because it’s so well deserved,” he concluded.

Ghana secured their place in the WAFCON quarterfinals after progressing from the group stage and will now face Malawi in the knockout phase.

The Black Queens will be aiming to advance to the semifinals as they continue their quest for a second WAFCON title while also seeking qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.