Ghana’s hopes of reaching the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) were dashed after a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to host nation Morocco in the semi-finals.
The Black Queens took an early lead in the first half through Stella Nyamekye, but a second-half equaliser from Morocco’s Sakina Ouzraoui forced the game into extra time and eventually penalties. Ghana ultimately lost 4-2 in the shootout, with misses from Evelyn Badu and Comfort Yeboah proving costly.
Ghana started the match strongly, showing attacking intent from the first whistle. Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah launched the first effort on goal, but Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-rmichi stood firm. Doris Boaduwaa followed up with a powerful run, only to fire wide.
Nyamekye, a key figure throughout the game, tested the goalkeeper with a long-range shot before eventually opening the scoring midway through the first half. Her corner kick was cleared but quickly recycled through Grace Asantewaa, who found Yeboah on the flank. The Ampem Darkoa defender delivered a pinpoint cross that was met by Josephine Bonsu’s header — it struck the post, and Nyamekye was well-positioned to bundle the rebound home.
The Queens nearly doubled their lead shortly after when Boaduwaa pressured the Moroccan keeper into a miscue, allowing Nyamekye a clear sight on goal. However, her attempt went narrowly wide.
Morocco returned from the break with renewed energy and took control of the game. Their pressure paid off in the 55th minute when Yeboah’s defensive error allowed Ouzraoui to slot home the equaliser.
The hosts pushed for a winner in regulation time, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak nearly scoring, but Susan Duah’s timely intervention denied her.
Ghana had their own chances in extra time. Grace Asantewaa’s well-placed corner found Alice Kusi unmarked at the far post, but her effort lacked power. Evelyn Badu also came close when a rebound from Er-rmichi landed perfectly for her, but her header went astray.
Later, Badu beat her marker and floated in a dangerous cross, but no Ghanaian player was in position to finish it off.
With the scores level after 120 minutes, the match was decided by penalties. Ghana failed to convert two crucial kicks — with both Badu and Yeboah missing — as Morocco converted four out of their five attempts to book a place in the final.
The defeat ends Ghana’s impressive WAFCON campaign, but the Black Queens can hold their heads high after a brave performance against the host nation.
