2026 CAF Awards: Black Queens captain Portia Boakye nominated for Women’s Player of the Year

Portia Boakye, the captain of Ghana's Black Queens, has been nominated for the prestigious 2026 CAF Women's Player of the Year award. The announcement came on Tuesday, following the selection of 10 players representing Africa's top female footballers. Boakye, a seasoned defender, joins an elite group of athletes from across the continent who have contributed significantly to their national teams this year.

The Black Queens' captain earned her nomination for her outstanding performances during Ghana's campaign at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco. Despite the team's quarter-final exit, Boakye played a crucial role in the tournament, appearing in five matches and providing one assist. Her contributions helped Ghana return to continental competition and advance to the knockout stages.

Boakye's candidacy puts her in fierce competition with some of Africa's best footballers, including Barbra Banda from Zambia, Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga from Malawi, Thembi Kgatlana from South Africa, and Hanane Aït El Haj from Morocco. Cameroon also has three representatives on the shortlist: Marie Ngah Manga, Michaely Bihina, and Monique Ngock. Completing the list is Algeria's Marine Dafeur, alongside Boakye and the other ten nominees.

Ghana's successes in women's football extend beyond Boakye's nomination. Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan has been recognized for her stellar performances, earning a nomination for Women's Goalkeeper of the Year. The Black Queens themselves are shortlisted for Women's National Team of the Year. The 2026 CAF Awards ceremony, which will honor the continent's outstanding athletes, is scheduled for December 7 in Lagos, Nigeria.