Ghana’s Black Queens claimed the bronze medal at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a tense 4-3 penalty shootout victory over South Africa, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The third-place match was a rematch of their group-stage encounter where South Africa had beaten Ghana 2-0. However, this time, the Black Queens held their nerve to avenge that loss and climb the podium for the first time since 2016.
South Africa struck first just before the break, with Nonhlanhla Mthandi finding the net in the 45th minute.
Ghana responded in the 68th minute, drawing level through an own goal by Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.
With no extra time played, the match went directly to penalties. Ghana converted four of their five attempts through A. Kusi, J. Bonsu, J. Cudjoe, and N. Amoh. South Africa, meanwhile, missed two crucial kicks, with S. Holweni and H. Magaia failing to convert.
Black Queens of Ghana celebrating their win over South Africa in the 2024 WAFCON third place match. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
The result marks Ghana’s fourth WAFCON bronze medal, replicating their third-place finish over the same opponents at the 2016 tournament in Yaoundé.
For head coach Kim Björkegren, appointed earlier this year, the bronze represents a breakthrough moment.
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Ghana had missed the 2022 edition entirely and came into the tournament with modest expectations.
The Swedish tactician praised his team’s growth, especially after their earlier defeat to South Africa in the group phase.
With the win, Ghana now hold a slight edge in their head-to-head record against South Africa, with five victories to Banyana Banyana’s four, and two draws in their 11 meetings.
Black Queens of Ghana celebrating their win over South Africa in the 2024 WAFCON third place match. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
South Africa, the 2022 champions, were aiming for back-to-back podium finishes, but will return home empty-handed.
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Coach Desiree Ellis had emphasised the importance of securing bronze, especially in honour of injured midfielder Gabriela Salgado, who suffered a serious leg injury in their semi-final defeat to Nigeria.
The 2024 WAFCON will conclude tomorrow as hosts Morocco take on Nigeria in the final in Rabat a clash of titans between the Atlas Lionesses and the Super Falcons, with continental supremacy on the line.
