WAFCON 2024: Black Queens, Banyana Clash for Bronze in WAFCON Third-Place Playoff

0
69

Ghana’s Black Queens will square off against defending champions South Africa in the third-place match of the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca today, Friday 25th July 2025.

Both teams come into the match bruised from semi-final heartbreaks but motivated to end their campaigns on a high. South Africa, the 2022 champions, were edged out 2-1 by nine-time winners Nigeria, while Ghana fell short against tournament hosts Morocco, losing 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 stalemate in extra time.

The encounter presents a final opportunity for both nations to claim a podium finish, offering some consolation after their dreams of continental glory were dashed.

Both Sides Talk Tough Ahead of Clash

Ghana’s head coach, Kim Lars Björkegren, says his side has shaken off the disappointment of the semi-final loss and is fully focused on the bronze-medal match.

“We had a group of coaches, staff members, and players who were really disappointed, but we’re back on track again and focused on the next game,” the Swedish tactician said during Thursday’s pre-match press conference.

“We want to do the best we can to win it and give our fans something to celebrate.”

Ghana Coach, Kim Björkegren

The Black Queens have been one of the tournament’s surprise packages, showing great resilience and character throughout the competition, and will be eager to end their WAFCON medal drought.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s head coach, Desiree Ellis, who guided Banyana Banyana to their maiden title in 2022, says her team is determined to return home with something to show for their efforts.

“We are still disappointed, of course, but we have another match to play. We owe it to ourselves, our fans, and our country to finish strong,” Ellis said.

“We will give it everything not to leave Morocco empty-handed.”

South Africa Coach, Desiree Ellis

A Fierce Rivalry Rekindled

Today’s match is expected to be a closely contested battle between two of Africa’s most competitive women’s teams. The Black Queens will look to avenge recent defeats to South Africa, while Banyana Banyana are keen to reassert their status among the continent’s elite.

Both teams boast exciting talents who have impressed throughout the tournament, including Ghana’s Azumah Bugri and South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana, and fans can expect a thrilling encounter to cap off their WAFCON journeys.

Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. local time, with the winner set to claim the bronze medal and a place on the tournament podium.

Leave a Reply