Ghana’s Black Queens sealed third place at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating South Africa 4-3 on penalties on Friday, following a 1-1 draw at full time.
The match, played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, saw both teams pushing for redemption after semi-final losses, but it was Ghana who held their nerve in the shootout to secure their first WAFCON medal since 2016.
South Africa took the lead moments before the break through Nonhlanhla Mthandi’s clinical finish, but the game was turned on its head in the 68th minute when goalkeeper Andile Dlamini scored an unfortunate own goal, handing Ghana a lifeline.
Despite pressure from both sides in the closing stages, neither team could break the deadlock, sending the match to penalties. Ghana converted four of their five kicks, while South Africa missed two, allowing the Black Queens to complete a dramatic comeback.
Speaking after the match, Ghana’s head coach Kim Björkegren said the result was a reflection of the team’s belief. “We came here with a point to prove after missing the last tournament. These players showed character and refused to back down,” he said.
Friday’s win also marked revenge for Ghana, who had lost 2-0 to South Africa earlier in the group stage. The victory pushes their all-time head-to-head record against the Banyana Banyana to five wins versus South Africa’s four.
South Africa, who came into the tournament as defending champions, leave Morocco without a podium finish, despite a solid campaign.
The final match of the tournament is scheduled for Saturday, with hosts Morocco taking on nine-time champions Nigeria in what is expected to be a tightly contested title clash.
