Ghana advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over Algeria, following a goalless draw after 120 minutes at Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca. Despite both sides creating chances, including a disallowed goal for Ghana’s Stella Nyamekye due to offside, strong defensive performances from both teams kept the score level throughout regulation and extra time[1][5]. In the shootout, Ghana’s goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan was pivotal, saving two penalties, while Josephine Bonsu, Doris Boaduwaa, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, and Evelyn Badu successfully converted their spot-kicks to send the Black Queens through. Ghana will now face the winner of the Nigeria vs. South Africa quarter-final for a chance to reach the final[1][5].
Morocco also clinched a semi-final spot with a convincing 3-1 victory over Mali. Ibtissam Jraïdi netted twice for the Atlas Lionesses—the opening goal and a penalty—while Kenza Chapelle added a spectacular long-range third. Mali reduced the deficit with a late penalty from Aïssata Traoré, but it was merely a consolation as Morocco moved closer to their first WAFCON title under coach Reynald Pedros[3]. Morocco are set to play the winner of Quarterfinal 3 in the semis[4].
Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered an emphatic performance, defeating Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals to secure their record-extending 13th semi-final appearance. The result also solidifies Nigeria’s reputation as perennial contenders in the competition[6].
The tournament, delayed from 2024, is being held across six Moroccan venues from July 5 to 26. The top two teams from each of the three groups, along with the two best third-placed finishers, advanced to the knockout stage[7]. Defending champions South Africa, hosts Morocco, Nigeria, Ghana, and Algeria are all in contention or have made deep runs, with semi-final fixtures and standout performances shaping an exciting path to the final.
References
- [1] Algeria vs Ghana | Women’s AFCON 2025 HIGHLIGHTS – YouTube (beIN SPORTS USA)
- [3] Morocco vs Mali | Women’s Africa Cup of Nations – YouTube (beIN SPORTS USA)
- [4] 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Schedule – ESPN
- [5] Ghana edge Algeria in penalty drama to reach TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON Semi-Finals
- [6] Women’s Africa Cup of Nations News, Stats, Scores – ESPN
- [7] CAF Women’s AFCON 2024 in 2025: Full schedule, all results, scores, and standings
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