The match ended goalless after 120 minutes, setting up a tense shootout where goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan shone, saving two crucial penalties.
The match was marked by tactical caution and strong defensive efforts from both sides. Ghana created more chances and posed a greater attacking threat, but Algeria’s disciplined defence and vigilant goalkeeper, Chloe N’Gazi, kept the game scoreless.
Notably, a powerful strike by Ghana’s Stella Nyamekye in the 27th minute was ruled out for offside after a VAR check, denying Ghana an early lead.
As regulation time neared its end, the Black Queens nearly clinched the game through a close-range chance from Evelyn Badu, who miskicked her effort from six yards out.
Extra time saw limited clear opportunities, though Algeria’s Ghoutia Karchouni forced a late effort which sailed over the bar.
The penalty shootout proved decisive. Ghana’s Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu all converted their spot kicks confidently.
Konlan emerged as the heroine, saving penalties from Algeria’s Dafe and In Bellouou, securing the 4-2 shootout win and sending Ghana into the last four.
It’s the first time Ghana has reached the semi-finals of the WAFCON since 2016, and head coach Kim Bjorkegren is looking ahead to the crunch game against Morocco.
“I wish that we had one or two more days, but that's the life as a football player and a coach to mentally recover and for them maybe more physical recovery and then be ready to do everything we can in the semi-final.”
Grace Asantewaa, who was adjudged woman of the match against Algeria, is confident Ghana can win the trophy.
“As we are going to the semi-finals, we are not ending yet. We are taking this mentality to the semi-finals and I know for sure, we are going to win the cup.”
The Black Queens will now face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals in Rabat on Tuesday. The two sides met earlier this year in February in a pre-WAFCON friendly, which saw the North African side edge a 1-0 victory.
