Black Queens Claim Bronze Medal in Dramatic Penalty Shootout
The Black Queens triumphed over South Africa in a penalty shootout to secure third place at the 2024 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, winning 4–3 after a 1–1 stalemate in regular time.
The third-place match at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca was an exciting encounter that showcased the Black Queens’ tenacity and spirit. South Africa took the lead just before halftime when Nonhlanhla Mthandi seized on a defensive blunder to finish with a right-footed shot in the 45th minute.
Ghana equalized in the second half when Alice Kusi’s pressure led to an unfortunate mistake by South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, resulting in an own goal in the 68th minute. With no extra time in the third-place match, the game went straight to penalties.
Ghana remained composed in the shootout, successfully converting four out of five penalty kicks, with efforts from Alice Kusi, Josephine Bonsu, Jennifer Cudjoe, and Nancy Amoh. Although Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah failed to convert her kick, it didn’t affect the outcome. South Africa scored three penalties from Linda Motlhalo, Bambanani Mbane, and Jermaine Seoposenwe, but crucial misses by Sibulele Holweni and Hildah Magaia resulted in Ghana taking the victory.
This win was particularly satisfying for the Black Queens, who had previously lost 2–0 to South Africa in the group stages. The outcome not only adds another medal to the Queens’ achievements at WAFCON but also lays a strong groundwork for upcoming competitions. The Black Queens’ determined performance throughout the tournament reflects their development and resolve, making Ghana proud once more.
