Black Queens Edge Algeria in Nerve-Racking Penalty Duel
Ghana secured a dramatic victory over Algeria in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarterfinal, winning 4-2 in a tense penalty shootout after a goalless draw in regulation and extra time. The match took place in Berkane, Morocco, under intense pressure and sweltering conditions.
Algeria’s Defensive Wall Tested to the Limit
Algeria had entered the knockout phase with an unblemished defensive record, having kept clean sheets throughout the group stage. Their disciplined backline held off heavyweights like Nigeria in a goalless draw and looked poised to make a deeper run in their first-ever WAFCON quarterfinal. However, despite their resolute defense, they lacked the clinical finishing needed to capitalize on several promising chances.
Missed Chances and Frustration Define Regular Play
Ghana came close to breaking the deadlock in the 27th minute when Stella Nyamekye found the net, but the goal was ruled offside by VAR. Algeria’s Ghoutia Karchouni led several surges forward, creating openings that included a close-range effort blocked by Marine Dafeur. On Ghana’s side, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah and Doris Boaduwaa applied pressure, but were repeatedly denied by goalkeeper Chloe N’Gazi.
Both teams struggled to maintain rhythm in a match marked by 57 fouls. The midfield was highly contested, yet constant disruptions prevented either side from gaining sustained control. As temperatures rose, frustration mounted, leading to errors and missed chances.
Extra Time Intensity and Shootout Heroics
Ghana intensified their attack in extra time, forcing N’Gazi into multiple saves. Meanwhile, Algeria began to lose discipline and momentum. The deadlock led to a penalty shootout where Ghana’s Cynthia Konlan emerged as the hero—saving spot-kicks from Dafeur and Ines Belloumou.
Ghana’s shooters—Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu—converted confidently, sealing the win. Algeria managed two goals from the spot but fell short, bringing their historic WAFCON run to an end.
Semifinal Showdown with Morocco Awaits
With this result, Ghana Triumphs Over Algeria in WAFCON Quarterfinal Penalty Shootout to earn a semifinal clash with tournament hosts Morocco in Rabat. The Black Queens now eye a place in the final, driven by momentum and confidence.
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