Newly appointed Black Queens Assistant Coach, Pierre Persson, has said he is determined to prove himself as he begins his new role with Ghana's senior women's national team ahead of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Swedish coach, who was appointed to assist head coach Kim Lars Björkegren, said he was delighted to receive the opportunity to work with the Black Queens and contribute to the team's quest for continental success.
According to Persson, the Black Queens possessed enormous potential, and he was excited to be part of their journey as they sought to establish themselves among the leading women's football nations in Africa.
"As a new coach, I know I have to prove myself, but the response from the players and staff has been very positive. There's much more to come, and I'm really looking forward to the journey ahead," he said.
Persson joins the technical team at a time when the Black Queens are preparing for this year's WAFCON in Morocco, where Ghana hopes to mount a strong challenge for its maiden continental title.
Although the Black Queens have long been regarded as one of Africa's traditional powerhouses in women's football, they have yet to win the competition. Their best performances came in 1998, 2002 and 2006, when they finished as runners-up on each occasion after losing to Nigeria in the final.
The assistant coach said his primary responsibility would be to support the head coach by improving the team's tactical approach, ball circulation and overall style of play.
"My role is to complement the head coach by working on passing drills, possession and tactics. The players are technically gifted and explosive, with many competing at top clubs in Europe. My job is to help them move the ball quicker, improve their movement off the ball and increase the tempo in possession," he explained.
Persson also stressed the importance of blending fresh ideas with the team's existing football culture.
"It's important to respect the culture that's already here, but I also want to bring new ideas. Every training session should demand focus and precision because that's what helps players improve," he said.
He praised the quality and professionalism of the squad, noting that many of the players compete regularly at the highest level and consistently challenge one another to improve.
"These players already compete at a high international level, and they constantly push each other. My goal is to build their confidence by recognising what they are doing well while also showing them where we can improve," Persson added.
The Black Queens will be aiming to end their long wait for a WAFCON title when the tournament gets underway in Morocco this weekend, with the technical team hopeful that the blend of experience and fresh ideas will help the side make a significant impact.
