Hosts Morocco won 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 tie in regulation and extra time in Rabat on Tuesday night, advancing to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final for the second year in a row.
During the shootout, Khadija ErRmichi, Morocco’s goalkeeper, made a very important stop; Ghana missed two penalties. Morocco’s victory qualifies it for the final against Nigeria on Saturday; Ghana will fight South Africa for third place on Friday.
Ghana took the lead in the 26th minute with a goal from Stella Nyamekye in the game. In the 55th minute, Morocco equalized when Sakina Ouzraoui Diki scored under continued pressure.
Though each side had opportunities, neither could find a winner in normal time. Morocco made all their shots, therefore penalties decided the victor following extra time.
As they seek their first WAFCON championship at home, Moroccan players and supporters erupted in celebration upon the last whistle. Ghana will attempt to get a medal in the third-place match on Friday.
