Ghana’s Black Queens fought to a hard-earned 4-3 penalty shootout victory over South Africa to secure third place at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.
In a match filled with drama, mistakes, and emotion, both teams traded goals in regulation before Ghana emerged triumphant from the spot. The result hands the Black Queens their first WAFCON medal in eight years, while Banyana Banyana finish outside the podium for the first time since 2016.
South Africa took the lead just before halftime through Nonhlanhla Mthandi. Ghana goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan was caught in possession by Jermaine Seoposenwe, and though she stopped the first effort, Mthandi struck from range to punish the error.
But South Africa returned the favour in the second half. Andile Dlamini mishandled a header from Alice Kusi, spilling it over her line for an own goal. The match, tight and nervy, went to penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Kusi, who was later named Player of the Match, had tormented the South African defence. Her crosses and set-piece delivery caused constant problems. But finishing was a concern for Ghana, as Evelyn Badu and Princella Adobea missed key chances.
South Africa, without some of their regular starters, lacked rhythm and struggled to assert control. Linda Motlhalo fired wide early, and substitute Refiloe Jane failed to convert a dangerous free-kick late on. Mthandi’s opener had been their only real moment of quality in normal time.
In the shootout, Ghana looked like they had blown it when Jennifer Cudjoe’s penalty was saved. But VAR spotted encroachment and ordered a retake. Nancy Amoh then coolly slotted the decisive kick after Holweni and Magaia missed for South Africa.
Amoh’s winner sparked wild celebrations, with the team paying tribute using Diogo Jota’s signature celebration. For Ghana, it marked a redemptive end to their tournament. For South Africa, it was a frustrating farewell after a campaign that promised more.
