Ghana Football Association (GFA) has appointed former Black Queens coach Mercy Tagoe-Quarcoo to head the female U-23 national team.
After spending four years with the senior team, the experienced tactician was replaced with Swiss trainer Nora Hauptle in January 2023 who has been steering the Black Queens to remarkable feats.
Zambians swooning over Black Queens coach Nora Hauptle after yesterday’s performance in Ndola. pic.twitter.com/ulkhLCeAPp
— Yaw (@theyawofosu) February 29, 2024
However, the GFA has reiterated its trust in the former Halifax Ladies coach by placing under her charge the newly established U-23 female national team.
Tagoe-Quarcoo also led the Black Queens to victory in the WAFU Zone B Women’s championship in 2018 as an interim boss.
With her vast playing experience and possession of a CAF License A Coaching certificate, Priscilla Dicxon, who currently coaches Faith Ladies FC and holds a CAF Licence C Coaching certificate, will support Tagoe-Quarcoo in her coaching responsibilities.
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The establishment of the female U23 national team according to the GFA “is a key plank in the GFA’s Women’s Football Strategy and is configured to provide a pathway for young female players aspiring to compete at the highest levels of international football.”
The association also said the U-23 team “will serve as a vital stepping stone for players looking to progress to the senior national team, the Black Queens.”
Expectations are however high due to the recent rise in Women’s football with the Black Queens already qualified for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Black Princesses also won gold at the recently concluded 2023 African Games and are preparing for their seventh consecutive appearance at the U-20 Women’s World Cup.