Black Queens Edge Past Algeria on Penalties to Reach WAFCON Semi-Final
Ghana’s Black Queens have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Algeria at the Stade Municipal de Berkane on Saturday afternoon.
Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan emerged as the hero of the day, making two crucial saves during the shootouts to help Ghana seal a 4-2 win on penalties and book their place in the last four of the tournament for the first time in nine years.
The Black Queens began the game on a positive note and thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half when Stella Nyamekye found the back of the net. However, after a VAR review, the goal was ruled out.
Despite the setback, Ghana maintained control and created several chances, with Doris Boaduwaa and Chantelle Hlorkah posing constant threats to the Algerian defense.
In the second half, head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren brought on Evelyn Badu for Nyamekye, followed by Princella Adubea who replaced Princess Marfo, as Ghana searched for a breakthrough.
Badu nearly won it for the Queens late in the game, but the Norway-based midfielder miss-kicked a glorious opportunity, sending the match into extra time.
The Ghanaians began the extra period cautiously but grew into the game, creating two excellent chances for Boaduwaa. However, the striker failed to convert both one-on-one opportunities.
With the deadlock unbroken after 120 minutes, the game was decided by penalties. Konlan rose to the occasion, saving two Algerian efforts as the Black Queens converted their spot kicks with composure to seal a 4-2 victory.
Ghana will now face tournament hosts Morocco in the semi-final on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
