The highly anticipated encounter, a rematch of their group stage fixture which South Africa won 2-0, saw both teams display resilience and determination. South Africa opened the scoring just before halftime with a precise strike from Nonhlanhla Mthandi in the 45th minute, giving Banyana Banyana the lead at the break.
However, Ghana emerged with renewed vigor in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when they found an equalizer through an unfortunate own goal by South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, leveling the score at 1-1.
Despite chances for both sides to secure a winner in regulation time, including a late hit of the crossbar by Ghana's Evelyn Badu, the score remained unchanged, sending the match directly to a penalty shootout.
In the ensuing shootout, Ghana’s Black Queens held their nerve. They successfully converted four of their five spot-kicks through Alice Kusi, Josephine Bonsu, Jennifer Cudjoe, and Nancy Amoh. While Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah missed her attempt, Ghana's goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan proved to be the heroine, making crucial saves from South Africa's Hildah Magaia and Sibulele Holweni. South Africa's successful penalties came from Linda Motlhalo, Bambanani Mbane, and Jermaine Seoposenwe.
This victory marks Ghana's second-ever third-place finish at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, echoing their bronze medal triumph over South Africa in the 2016 edition. For the Black Queens, led by Swedish coach Kim Björkegren, this podium finish signifies a remarkable resurgence after missing the previous tournament.
For South Africa, the reigning champions, the result is a disappointing end to their campaign, as they miss out on a podium finish after an impressive run to the semifinals.
The 2024 WAFCON will conclude today, Saturday, July 26, with the highly anticipated final between hosts Morocco and Nigeria.
