The Black Queens of Ghana are through to the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a heart-stopping penalty shootout victory over Algeria. Following a tense 120 minutes of goalless action, Ghana held their nerve to triumph 4-2 in the shootout, with goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan emerging as the undisputed hero of the night.
In a game where both teams pushed for a breakthrough but failed to find the net, it was Konlan’s composure between the posts that proved decisive. The Ghanaian shot-stopper pulled off two clutch saves, denying Marine Dafeur and Inès Belloumou to swing momentum in Ghana’s favor.
Ghana’s penalty takers showed ice-cold precision under pressure, with Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu all converting from the spot. Their clinical finishing ensured the Black Queens’ progression to the final four, rekindling hopes of a long-awaited continental title.
This marks a significant milestone for Ghana, who have not reached the WAFCON final since 2006. Head coach Nora Häuptle’s side will now face hosts Morocco on July 22 in what promises to be a high-stakes clash brimming with intensity and national pride.
The semi-final encounter will test Ghana’s resilience and tactical discipline, especially against a Moroccan side riding the wave of home support. However, with momentum on their side and confidence surging after the dramatic quarter-final win, the Black Queens will be looking to make a powerful statement and secure a spot in the final.
As the team prepares for their toughest test yet, Ghanaian fans at home and abroad will be rallying behind the Black Queens, hopeful that this victory is just the beginning of a historic WAFCON campaign.
