The Black Queens have advanced to the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Algeria on July 19. The match, filled with suspense and determination, saw goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan emerge as the heroine, pulling off two crucial saves during the shootout to secure Ghana’s first semi-final berth in nine years.
The Black Queens came into the game with fierce determination and took control early, pressing high and threatening Algeria’s defence. A goal from Stella Nyamekye midway through the first half seemed to put Ghana ahead, but was ruled out after a VAR review. Despite this setback, the team maintained their dominance, with Doris Boaduwaa and Chantelle Hlorkah testing the Algerian goalkeeper repeatedly.
In the second half, tactical changes by head coach Kim Lars Björkegren, including the introduction of Evelyn Badu and Princella Adubea, added fresh energy to the squad. Badu nearly found the winner in the dying minutes but missed a clear-cut opportunity, forcing the match into extra time and eventually to penalties.
National pride and next challenge
Following the victory, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang extended warm congratulations to the team in a message shared on Facebook. She praised their resilience and called for continued national support as they gear up to face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals.
“A big congratulations to our Black Queens for their remarkable victory over Algeria to secure a spot in the Women’s AFCON semi-finals. As they prepare to face Morocco, we salute their resilience and urge them to keep pushing. The whole nation is behind you. The dream is alive,” she wrote.
The Black Queens will now prepare for a crucial encounter against Morocco, with renewed confidence and a shot at WAFCON glory in sight.
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