In a dramatic showdown in Berkane on Saturday, Ghana’s Black Queens secured their spot in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-finals with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Algeria. Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves to propel Ghana into the semi-finals for the first time in nine years.
The Black Queens dominated early, with Stella Nyamekye seemingly scoring in the first half, only for the goal to be disallowed after a VAR review. Despite the setback, Ghana maintained their attacking momentum, with Doris Boaduwaa and Chantelle Hlorkah threatening Algeria’s defense throughout the opening period.
In the second half, coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren made tactical changes, bringing on Evelyn Badu for Nyamekye and Princella Adubea for Princess Marfo. Badu nearly clinched victory late in regulation time but misfired a golden opportunity, forcing the match into extra time.
The Black Queens played cautiously in extra time but created two clear chances through Boaduwaa, who was unable to convert either one-on-one opportunity. With no breakthrough after 120 minutes, the match went to penalties, where Konlan’s heroics shone, saving two spot-kicks to secure a 4-2 shootout win.
Ghana now faces host nation Morocco in the semi-finals on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, as they aim to continue their historic run in the tournament.
