Ghana’s Black Queens are through to the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a nerve-racking penalty shootout victory over Algeria in Berkane on Saturday.

It was a dramatic afternoon where goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan stood tall, saving two spot-kicks to seal a 4-2 shootout triumph—sending Ghana to the last four of WAFCON for the first time since 2016.

The Queens started brightly and thought they had taken the lead in the first half through Stella Nyamekye, only for VAR to chalk it off. Undeterred, Ghana pressed on with Doris Boaduwaa and Chantelle Hlorkah troubling the Algerian backline.

Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren made bold substitutions, bringing on Evelyn Badu and Princella Adubea to inject fresh legs into the attack. Badu came closest to a late winner but fluffed her chance, forcing the tie into extra time.

Ghana had two golden opportunities in extra time through Boaduwaa but couldn’t find the breakthrough. It all came down to penalties—where Konlan’s brilliance made the difference, guiding the Black Queens to a famous win.

Next up is a high-stakes showdown against tournament hosts Morocco in Rabat as the Queens continue their quest for continental glory.