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Ghana’s Black Queens saw their dream of reaching the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final dashed after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to tournament hosts Morocco.
In a tightly contested semi-final clash on Tuesday night, head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren stuck with the same lineup that edged past Algeria in the previous round. The Ghanaian side started confidently, taking control of the early stages despite the hostile home crowd.
Stella Nyamekye gave the Black Queens a deserved lead after capitalizing on a rebound following a save from Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi. Ghana had chances to double their advantage before halftime through Doris Boaduwaa and Princess Marfo, while Susan Ama Duah made a crucial clearance to maintain their narrow lead at the break.
In the second half, Nyamekye nearly scored again but missed the opportunity. Morocco then equalized in the 55th minute through Sakina Ouzraoui, who reacted swiftly to a loose ball in the box.
Despite intense pressure from the Moroccan side, Ghana’s defense held firm, forcing extra time for the second match in a row. However, neither team managed to find a winner, sending the game into penalties.
Morocco converted all their spot-kicks, while misses from Evelyn Badu and Comfort Yeboah ultimately sealed Ghana’s fate. The defeat ends the Black Queens’ hopes of reaching their first WAFCON final since 2006.
Ghana will now prepare for the third-place playoff against South Africa on Friday, July 25, at the Stade Larbi Zaouli. Kick-off is at 19:00 GMT.
