Reports have surfaced indicating that the Black Queens are contemplating boycotting their pivotal 2024 Olympic qualifier against Zambia due to outstanding bonus payments.
The team is reportedly owed bonuses from two previous rounds of qualification – one from the 2024 Olympic Qualifiers and another from the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Despite their victories over Benin in the Olympic Qualifier, and Rwanda and Namibia in the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations Qualifiers, the players have yet to receive their due bonuses. Each Black Queens player is owed $7,500 from the six qualifying matches, leading to frustration among the team.
With unresolved payment issues looming large, speculation has arisen that the players may opt to boycott the crucial qualifier against Zambia on Friday. Despite assurances from the Ghana Football Association regarding timely payments, funds have yet to be disbursed just two days before the match.
Dr Gifty Oware Mensah, Chairperson of the Queens, acknowledged the situation at the GFA Meet the Press event in Kumasi on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, indicating steps were being taken to address the concerns.
While Dr Mensah assured, “Black Queens will be paid all bonuses before their next game,” referring to the Olympic qualifier against Zambia, players remain unpaid with just two days to go.
Public outcry has intensified over the delay in payments, raising questions about the authorities' priorities. The frustration is compounded by the Black Queens' commendable performance under Swiss coach Nora Hauptle, who has steered the team to just one loss in their last 11 matches.
Critics argue that the football authorities must demonstrate more respect and appreciation for the women’s football team's achievements, especially given their recent successes compared to the men’s team struggles.
The highly anticipated game is scheduled to be hosted at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, February 23, with kick-off slated for 16:00 GMT.
