The Black Queens, Ghana's senior women's national team, are at a critical juncture. The team's progress under the guidance of Swiss coach Nora Hauptle is under threat as her future hangs in the balance. Hauptle's potential departure to take up the Copper Queens job in Zambia could have far-reaching consequences for the team.
Hauptle's impact on the Black Queens has been transformative. She brought a fresh perspective and a clear vision for the team's success. Her "Mission Volta" initiative aimed to build a competitive team through a series of preparatory games. The team's results under Hauptle have been impressive, with 10 wins and one loss in 11 matches, scoring 34 goals and conceding only two.
Despite the team's progress, Hauptle's future is uncertain. Her contract expires this month, and renewal negotiations have been ongoing for months. Reports suggest she has rejected the Ghana Football Association's (GFA) new offer. The reasons behind Hauptle's potential departure are complex, but it is clear that the team's lack of investment and support has been a major factor.
The Black Queens have faced systemic neglect, with budgetary issues and a lack of investment in the team's development. The technical team had arranged friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia, but the $40,000 budget was not approved. The authorities' focus on the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON has also sidelined the Queens' needs.
Hauptle's frustration with the lack of support is evident. She has expressed her disappointment on LinkedIn, highlighting the need for continuous development and high-performance game exposures for the team. The difference in the number of games played in 2024 between the Black Queens and other participating teams in the WAFCON is stark.
If Hauptle leaves, it will be a monumental challenge to sustain the progress she initiated. The team's momentum is fragile, and any successor will require significant investment to maintain it. The GFA's willingness to invest in an experienced coach is uncertain, and it is unlikely they will negotiate in good faith with a new one.
The consequences of Hauptle's departure could be severe. The Black Queens risk missing out on a competitive opportunity at Morocco 2025, and the team's progress could be set back by years. It is essential that the GFA prioritizes the team's needs and provides the necessary support to maintain their momentum. The future of Ghana's women's football hangs in the balance, and it is crucial that the authorities take immediate action to address the situation.
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