By Gertrude Tandoh
Ghana’s Black Queens secured third place at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations by beating defending champions South Africa in a penalty shootout.
The match, held at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, ended 1-1 after regulation time. South Africa scored first just before halftime, but Ghana equalized in the 68th minute through a well-executed finish by Alice Kusi.
Both teams created opportunities throughout the match, with Ghana growing stronger in the second half and hitting the woodwork at least once. South Africa also pushed forward in search of a winner, but neither side could break the deadlock by full time.
The penalty shootout was closely contested. Ghana converted four spot-kicks, while South Africa managed three, resulting in a 4-3 shootout victory for Ghana. The win awards Ghana their first WAFCON medal since 2016 and marks the fourth time they have claimed bronze also marking a significant achievement for the team’s ongoing development.
This outcome demonstrates the rising competitiveness in African women’s football, suggesting improved standards and growing parity between the continent’s top teams. Ghana’s success also underscores the importance of continued investment in women’s football infrastructure and youth development programs across Africa.
This achievement is also significant as it underscores Ghana’s position as a strong contender in African women’s football. The Black Queens’ resilience and skill throughout the tournament showcase the increasing competitiveness and quality of the game across the continent. Their success reflects both progress in technical and tactical aspects as well as growing investment in women’s football programs.
The bronze medal victory offers a renewed boost to the women’s football landscape in Ghana, encouraging further development at youth levels and increasing visibility for female athletes. It demonstrates that consistent effort and support can yield results on the continental stage. Moreover, the achievement acts as an important symbol of possibility for young girls in Ghana, illustrating that with commitment and support, they too can excel and reach continental prominence.
At a broader level, the tournament and Ghana’s podium finish highlight the overall advancement of women’s football in Africa. WAFCON 2025 has been noted for improved organization, higher standards, and growing fan engagement, which collectively contribute to raising the profile of the sport. The narrowing performance gap between traditional powerhouses like South Africa and emerging challengers such as Ghana indicates a more competitive and balanced future for women’s football in Africa.
Continental football authorities are taking notice, with expanded programs aimed at nurturing talent, coaching, and leadership amongst women. This trajectory suggests a promising environment for the growth of the sport, not only as an athletic pursuit but also as a vehicle for empowerment and opportunity on the continent.
Ghana’s third-place finish at WAFCON 2025 is both a milestone for the Black Queens and a positive indicator for the continued development and rising stature of women’s football in Ghana and across Africa.
