Black Queens Edge Past Algeria in Penalty Shootout, Set Up Semifinal Showdown with Hosts Morocco

Ghana’s Black Queens are through to the semifinals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a gritty penalty shootout win over Algeria on Friday, setting up a high-stakes clash with tournament hosts Morocco in Rabat.

It was a battle of endurance more than flair in Berkane, as both sides struggled to break through in regulation and extra time. Algeria, whose watertight defence had carried them through the group stage without conceding a single goal—including a goalless draw with heavyweights Nigeria—once again proved tough to crack.

But it was Ghana who held their nerve from the spot.

Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan emerged the hero, saving penalties from Marine Dafeur and Ines Belloumou to tilt the shootout in Ghana’s favour. Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu converted their kicks with composure, sealing the West Africans’ place in the final four.

Algeria, making their first-ever knockout appearance at WAFCON, were defensively solid but lacked cutting edge. They relied heavily on Ghoutia Karchouni’s midfield vision, while Dafeur came closest to scoring with a long-range effort denied by Konlan just after the hour mark.

Ghana thought they had gone ahead in the 27th minute through Stella Nyamekye, but VAR chalked it off for offside. From there, it was a war of attrition. Boye-Hlorkah and Boaduwaa threatened sporadically, but fatigue and frustration crept in as the match wore on. A staggering 57 fouls were recorded in the game, highlighting the scrappy nature of the contest.

Extra time brought little clarity, with both sides running on fumes. Algeria’s Nihed Naili had a brief sight of goal, but hesitation allowed Ghana to recover. At the other end, Boye-Hlorkah carved out late chances but couldn’t find the finish.

In the end, it came down to the shootout—and Ghana made theirs count.

The Black Queens now turn their focus to Morocco, who will enjoy home advantage on Tuesday. But with momentum on their side and a keeper in form, Ghana will fancy their chances of going all the way.