Exclusive: Jennifer Cudjoe on Black Queens' WAFCON 2024 Chances, Tips Barbra Banda for Top FIFA Award, and Speaks About Her Foundation

In a significant move, USL Super League club DC Power Women have facilitated the transfer of veteran midfielder Jennifer Cudjoe to the United States.

Cudjoe, who is bound for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, follows in the footsteps of fellow African footballers Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, and Asisat Oshoala.

A stalwart in European football with FC Nordsjaelland women since 2023, Cudjoe brings invaluable experience to DC Power Women. Her familiarity with American terrain, garnered from playing for Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, California Storm, NJ/NY Gotham FC, and other teams, made her a prime target for the club.

As a key playmaker for the Black Queens, Cudjoe is expected to add depth to DC Power Women's midfield options under interim head coach Phil Nana.

"It's a timely move for me, as I'm familiar with the terrain," Cudjoe shared with SportsBoom.co.za from her US residence. "Having studied and played for several clubs in the USA, I've found it easy to settle in at DC Power Women.

"My goal is straightforward: to focus on helping the club win the USL championship. However, what's equally important is creating an environment that attracts top talent, and I'm confident we're on the right track."

BANDA TICKS ALL THE BOXES, SAYS CUDJOE

Jennifer Cudjoe has thrown her weight behind Barbra Banda to win The Best FIFA Women's Player award. Cudjoe's endorsement is rooted in her  firsthand experience of facing Banda twice in the 2024 Olympics Qualifiers.

Banda's exceptional performances have garnered widespread acclaim, making her a top contender for the prestigious award, though former winner Aitana Bonmati  is no easy opponent.

"Honestly, I'd love to see Babra Banda win The Best FIFA Women's Player award," Cudjoe remarks. "Her performances for both country and club have been phenomenal. Winning the 2024 BBC Women's Footballer of the Year and the NWSL Championship MVP is a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Those achievements speak for themselves. I believe she truly deserves it, and I'm excited to see one of our African sisters at the top. She deserves it, and I think it's time for her to take it to the next level with the FIFA Women's Player Award."

BLACK QUEENS WON'T BE PUSHOVERS AT WAFCON

Cudjoe's recent success in helping Ghana return to the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a several-year absence is a resounding source of inspiration for the 30-year-old.

The Black Queens face a challenging group stage draw, pitted against defending champions South Africa, Tanzania, and Mali. However, this daunting task only fuels Cudjoe's determination and hunger for success.

"I find it amusing that people are underestimating us," says the DC Power Women midfielder. "The women's football landscape is changing, and we have the talent and a great coach in Nora Hauptle. Everyone will be vying for the trophy, and we're no exception."

Cudjoe acknowledges the toughness of their opponents but remains confident in her team's abilities. "South Africa will be a tough opponent in our group, but I believe we have the players to match them. We can't underestimate Tanzania and Mali either; their qualification is a testament to their strength."

With unwavering optimism, Cudjoe declares, "I genuinely believe we have what it takes to lift the WAFCON trophy. Our team is focused and determined to make a strong showing and bring the trophy home."

The Black Queens' primary goal is to finish in the top four, a feat that would be a dream come true for the players and a fulfillment of Ghanaians' expectations.

"I'm ready for the tournament, and I hope my colleagues are too," Cudjoe concludes, exuding confidence and readiness for the challenge ahead.

THE JENNIFER CUDJOE COMMUNITY PROJECT

Playing for Hasaacas Ladies in Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana's vibrant 'Oil City,' Cudjoe's football journey is deeply rooted in the city's rich sporting culture. And it's only fitting that she pays it forward, sharing her invaluable experience and expertise with the next generation.

A dream that gave birth to her foundation, the Jennifer Cudjoe Community Project. This foundation leverages sports to empower young girls to achieve their dreams. The foundation has already enrolled several young girls from Accra and its surrounding areas.

Cudjoe's vision is to nurture these girls into role models who will inspire others in their communities. By providing opportunities for young girls to develop their skills and build their confidence, Cudjoe hopes to create a positive impact that will ripple throughout Ghanaian society.

"I'm incredibly proud of the work we're doing," she says. "It's always been my dream to empower young girls, helping them discover their purpose and achieve their goals. As an athlete, I've seen firsthand the impact education through sports can have. We're making progress, and I'm excited about the potential for growth," she mentioned.

"My ultimate vision is to create a supportive system that fosters the development of these young girls. Who knows? Maybe one of them will become a president, minister, or a talented footballer, making a positive impact in our society. That's why I hope to expand our support to other parts of Ghana, reaching even more young girls and helping them unlock their full potential."