Banyana’s Bronze Medal Hopes Dashed As Ghana Triumphs

Banyana Banyana’s campaign in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) came to an end as they lost to Ghana.

Banyana suffered a 4-3 loss on penalties in the third and fourth playoff WAFCON after the match ended 1-1 after extra time at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Cabalanca on Friday evening.

The match started off on a balanced note, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances in the opening 15 minutes.

However, Ghana almost took the lead in the 26th minute through a stunning shot from outside the box by Grace Asantewaa, which was expertly saved by Andile Dlamini.

Despite the lack of clear chances, Banyana Banyana managed to take the lead just before halftime through Nonhlanhla Mthandi, who capitalized on a mistake by the Ghanaian goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan.

In the second half, coach Desiree Ellis introduced Kgalebane Mohlakoana and captain Refiloe Jane to strengthen the midfield.

The introduction of the duo had an immediate impact, with Banyana dominating the midfield for the first 15 minutes of the half.

However, Ghana’s persistence and pressure paid off in the 68th minute when Alice Kusi scored a well-taken header that left Dlamini with no chance.

Despite both teams having opportunities to score, neither side could find the winner, and the match was decided by penalties.

Ghana’s goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan was the hero of the night, saving two penalties to help her team win 4-3 on spot kicks.

This was the second time Ghana has beaten Banyana Banyana in the third-place playoff in the WAFCON, having previously won 1-0 in 2016.

Banyana Banyana’s campaign in the tournament was marked by some impressive performances, but ultimately, they fell short of winning a medal.

Despite the disappointment, the team will look to regroup and build on the experience gained from the tournament.