Ghana secured the bronze medal at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over South Africa.
The match, which concluded in a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes and extra time, was decided by penalties, marking Ghana’s first-ever WAFCON third-place finish.
A Match of Resilience and Determination
The game was a testament to both teams’ resilience.
South Africa took the lead in the 23rd minute through a powerful header from striker Jermaine Seoposenwe.
Ghana responded in the second half, with midfielder Evelyn Badu scoring the equalizer in the 68th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error.
Despite several attempts from both sides, including a late surge from Ghana, neither team could break the deadlock, leading to extra time and eventually, the penalty shootout.(BBC, SuperSport, MyJoyOnline)
The Penalty Shootout Drama
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Ghana converted all four of their spot-kicks, while South Africa missed two.
Ghana’s goalkeeper, Cynthia Konlan, played a pivotal role, saving two penalties and ensuring her team’s victory.
This win was particularly significant as Ghana had previously struggled in penalty shootouts, with a historical success rate of only 46% in major competitions since 1992. (MyJoyOnline)
Ghana’s Historic Achievement
This bronze medal is Ghana’s first in WAFCON history, marking a significant milestone for the Black Queens.
The team’s performance was a culmination of years of development and strategic planning.
Head coach Kim Björkegren’s emphasis on data-driven strategies and psychological preparation was evident, with the team displaying remarkable composure under pressure. (MyJoyOnline)
Looking Ahead
For Ghana, this achievement is not just about the medal but also about the growth and potential of women’s football in the country.
The Black Queens have shown that they can compete at the highest level, and this success is expected to inspire future generations of female footballers in Ghana and across Africa.
As the team returns home, they are celebrated not only for their victory but also for their role in elevating the profile of women’s football on the continent.
This historic bronze medal serves as a foundation upon which Ghana can build for future competitions, aiming for even greater successes in the years to come.
