Black Queens forward, Alice Kusi
Black Queens forward Alice Kusi says she is relieved Ghana did not leave the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations empty-handed after helping her side secure a third-place finish with a 4-3 penalty shootout win over South Africa.
It was Ghana’s first WAFCON medal since 2016 and marked a significant achievement for Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s team, who recovered from a goal down to force penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
“I’m happy we didn’t go home empty-handed. We couldn’t reach the final but we’re going home with something,” said Kusi, who was named Player of the Match. “I’m really excited to be woman of the match.”
Ghana came close to scoring early, with Doris Boaduwaa and Kusi narrowly missing opportunities to break the deadlock. Grace Asantewaa also tested South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini with a powerful effort.
However, Banyana Banyana took the lead late in the first half after a mistake by goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan allowed Nonhlanhla Mthandi to score.
The Black Queens responded with intensity in the second half and were rewarded in the 68th minute when Kusi finished off a Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah cross to level the score.
Despite several late chances, the game went to penalties, where Ghana held their nerve to secure bronze after two South African misses.
