Black Queens midfielder Azumah Bugre is optimistic about Ghana's upcoming international friendly against Japan, viewing it as a critical opportunity for the team to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.

The friendly match, scheduled for Saturday, July 13, will be held at the Kanazawa Go Go Curry Stadium in Japan.

Speaking to journalists at the Accra Sports Stadium before the team's departure, Bugre emphasized the importance of the match for the Black Queens' preparations for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

"Japan is one of the best women’s football teams in the world, so having a friendly game with them is actually going to give us a fair and clear view of where the team is, where we are supposed to level, and where we are supposed to maintain," said Bugre, who plays for IFK Norrkoping.

The high-profile encounter is seen as a pivotal part of Ghana's preparation strategy for WAFCON, providing a benchmark against one of the top teams in women's football globally.

The Black Queens' match against Japan will not only serve as a crucial test of their abilities but also help the coaching staff identify areas needing improvement ahead of the continental tournament.