Ghana’s Black Queens are through to the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over Algeria in a tense quarter-final encounter held in Berkane.
The clash, which ended goalless after 120 minutes of play, was a fiercely contested battle marked by tactical discipline and defensive solidity from both sides.
Ghana came close to opening the scoring in the first half when Stella Nyamekye found the back of the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside following a VAR check.
Despite persistent pressure and attacking efforts from Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu, Ghana were repeatedly denied by a resolute Algerian defence and their standout goalkeeper, Chloé N’Gazi.
Algeria also created several threatening moments, with Ghoutia Karchouni and Marine Dafeur testing Ghanaian goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan, who stood strong throughout regular and extra time.
With the deadlock unbroken after extra time, the game proceeded to a penalty shootout. Ghana converted all four of their spot-kicks through Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu.
Cynthia Konlan emerged as the hero of the night, saving crucial penalties from Marine Dafeur and Inès Belloumou to secure a 4-2 shootout victory for the Black Queens. Algeria managed to convert two of their attempts through Sofia Guellati and Laura Muller.
Penalty Shootout Recap:
- Josephine Bonsu (GHA) – Goal
- Sofia Guellati (ALG) – Goal
- Doris Boaduwaa (GHA) – Goal
- Marine Dafeur (ALG) – Saved
- Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah (GHA) – Goal
- Inès Belloumou (ALG) – Saved
- Laura Muller (ALG) – Goal
- Evelyn Badu (GHA) – Goal
Ghana will now face tournament hosts Morocco in the semi-finals on Tuesday, 22 July, as they continue their quest for continental glory.