The Black Queens achieved victory on penalties against Algeria to advance to the semi-finals of the Women’s AFCON.

The match concluded without goals after 120 minutes., leading to a tense penalty shootout where goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan excelled by saving two vital penalties.

The game was characterized by strategic caution and strong defensive performances from both teams. Ghana generated more opportunities and presented a stronger attacking threat, butAlgeria’s disciplined defense and alert goalkeeper, Chloe N’Gazi, kept the score at zero.

A notable moment was when a powerful shot from Ghana’s Stella Nyamekye in the 27th minute was disallowed for offside after a VAR review, preventing Ghana from taking an early lead.

As the regulation time approached its conclusion, the Black Queens almost secured the win through a close-range attempt by Evelyn Badu, who mishit her shot from six yards.

Extra time featured few clear chances, although Algeria’s Ghoutia Karchouni forced a late shot that went over the bar.

The penalty shootout was crucial. Ghana’s Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu all successfully converted their penalties with confidence.

Konlan emerged as the hero, saving penalties from Algeria’s Dafe and In Bellouou, clinching the 4-2 shootout victory and propelling Ghana into the semi-finals.

This marks the first time Ghana has reached the WAFCON semi-finals since 2016, and head coach Kim Bjorkegren is looking forward to the crucial match against Morocco.

“I wish we had one or two more days, but that’s the reality for a football player and a coach to mentally recover, and for them perhaps to physically recover as well, so we can be ready to give our all in the semi-final.”

Grace Asantewaa, named woman of the match against Algeria, believes Ghana can lift the trophy.

“As we head into the semi-finals, we are not finished yet. We are bringing this mindset into the semi-finals, and I am confident we will win the cup.”

The Black Queens will now face the hosts Morocco in the semi-finals in Rabat on Tuesday. The two teams previously met in February during a pre-WAFCON friendly, where the North African side secured a narrow 1-0 victory.