Ghana proved we are among the best in Africa – Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren after WAFCON bronze

Ghana head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren believes his side’s performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations proves the Black Queens belong among the continent’s elite after securing a bronze medal with a tense 4-3 penalty shootout win over South Africa.

The victory, which came after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, handed Ghana their first WAFCON medal since 2016. Coincidentally, the Queens also defeated Banyana Banyana for bronze on that occasion.

Reflecting on the team’s progress, Bjorkegren said: “I think overall we have made a great tournament. We have shown that we are one of the best teams in Africa.”

Ghana had the better chances in the opening half, with Doris Boaduwaa missing a sitter inside the first 15 minutes. Alice Kusi also came close, narrowly missing from a Portia Boakye corner. Grace Asantewaa later tested South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini with a stinging effort.

However, the breakthrough came at the other end. A rare error by Ghana’s goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan just before the break allowed Nonhlanhla Mthandi to score and give South Africa a 1-0 lead.

The Black Queens returned from halftime with renewed urgency.

The pressure finally paid off in the 68th minute when Kusi met a Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah cross to level the match.

Badu again threatened, striking the crossbar late in the game, but neither side could find a winner, sending the match to penalties.

Though Chantelle Boye-Hlorkqh missed her spot kick, South Africa’s two failed attempts proved costly, allowing Ghana to claim third place.