Cynthia Konlan made two crucial penalty saves as Ghana secured their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday. The Black Queens prevailed after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Algeria, following a goalless draw after extra time.
The highly anticipated quarter-final clash was a tense and tactical affair, but both sides were unable to find a breakthrough in 120 minutes of play.
Stella Nyamekye who made her first start in the tournament, found the net in the 27th minute but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
The likes of Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu, came close to scoring for the Black Queens but saw their efforts thwarted by Algeria’s resolute defense and goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi.
With the match heading to penalties, Ghana held their nerve. Cynthia Konlan emerged as the hero, saving efforts from Marine Dafeur and Inès Belloumou to give Ghana the edge.
Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu converted their penalties, while Sofia Guellati and Laura Muller scored for Algeria. Konlan’s heroics secured a Ghana’s 4-2 win on penalties and a place in the semi-finals.
Ghana will now face host Morocco in the semifinal of the tournament.
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