2026 CAF Awards: Black Queens’ Portia Boakye and Cynthia Konlan among nominees
The Black Queens’ remarkable journey under head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has earned both individual and team accolades, showcasing Ghana’s resurgence in women’s football on the continent.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the 2026 CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year shortlist, and Ghana's Cynthia Konlan is among the nominees. Konlan, the shot-stopper for the Black Queens, has been recognized for her outstanding performances throughout the past year. At the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, she played 360 minutes, conceded four goals, and secured one clean sheet as Ghana advanced to the quarter-finals.
Konlan faces competition from some of Africa's top goalkeepers, including Chloe N’Gazi of Algeria, Michaely Bihina of Cameroon, Khadija Er-Rmichi of Morocco, Hazel Nali of Zambia, Christiana Uzoma of Nigeria, Mercy Sikelo of Malawi, Fatoumata Karantao of Mali, Adji Ndiaye of Senegal, and Kaylin Swart of South Africa.
Ghana's representation at this year's awards expands with Black Queens captain Portia Boakye being shortlisted for Women’s Player of the Year. The Black Queens have also earned a nomination for Women’s National Team of the Year, marking Ghana's recognition in three women's categories. The 2026 CAF Awards ceremony is set to take place on December 7 in Lagos, Nigeria, where the continent's finest players, coaches, and teams will be honored.
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