WAFCON 2024; GHANA BEAT ALGERIA TO BOOK FIRST SEMI FINAL APPEARANCE SINCE 2016

 ASANTE DOMINIC

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Ghana's Black Queens Defeat Algeria to Reach First WAFCON Semi-Final Since 2016

Ghana's national women’s football team, the Black Queens, made history on Friday evening by securing a place in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a commanding 2-0 victory over Algeria. The win marks Ghana’s first semi-final appearance in the tournament since 2016 and renews hope for a long-awaited continental title.

The quarter-final clash, held at the Stade du 19 Mai in Annaba, Algeria, saw the Black Queens display dominance, flair, and teamwork as they outclassed their North African opponents. Goals from captain Grace Asantewaa and forward Princella Adubea in either half ensured that Ghana progressed to the final four of the tournament.

The opening moments of the match were tense, with both teams seeking to impose themselves early. However, it was Ghana who took control, pressing high and maintaining possession. Their efforts paid off in the 28th minute when Grace Asantewaa converted a well-placed free kick from just outside the box, sending the Ghanaian fans into a frenzy.

Algeria attempted to respond with quick counter-attacks, but the Ghanaian defense, led by the solid partnership of Ellen Coleman and Janet Agyeman, remained resolute. Goalkeeper Cynthia Findi was barely tested in the first half, thanks to the team’s tactical discipline and coordination.

In the second half, Ghana continued to assert their superiority. Winger Sandra Owusu-Ansah caused constant problems for the Algerian defense with her pace and dribbling, eventually creating the second goal in the 65th minute. A well-weighted cross from Owusu-Ansah found Adubea in the box, who calmly slotted the ball past the Algerian goalkeeper to seal the victory.

The result is a significant milestone for head coach Nora Häuptle, who took over the team just two years ago. Under her leadership, the Black Queens have undergone a remarkable transformation, blending experienced players with a new generation of talents like Mary Amponsah and Cecilia Nyama.

Speaking after the match, Coach Häuptle praised her players' resilience and teamwork. “This is a proud moment for Ghanaian football. The girls showed determination, skill, and heart. We knew Algeria would be tough at home, but we stuck to our game plan, and it paid off,” she said.

Captain Grace Asantewaa echoed her coach’s sentiments. “We’ve worked so hard for this. It’s been years since we made it this far, and we are not stopping here. Ghana deserves to lift this trophy.”

Ghana will now face either South Africa or Nigeria in the semi-finals — a match that promises to be a thrilling encounter given the rich history and rivalry between these footballing nations.

Fans across Ghana have reacted with excitement and optimism, with celebrations erupting in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and other cities. Social media has been flooded with congratulatory messages for the team, with the hashtag #BlackQueens trending across platforms.

The Black Queens’ journey in the 2024 WAFCON continues, and with their current form and unity, they are emerging as strong contenders for the title. As the nation rallies behind them, hopes are high that this team can finally bring home the trophy that has eluded Ghanaian women’s football for decades.

2ND NEWS STORY

Manchester City Star Jeremy Doku Promises to Give Back to Ghana in Heartfelt Visit

Ghanaian-born Belgian international and Manchester City winger, Jeremy Baffour Doku, has expressed deep gratitude to the people of Ghana and vowed to contribute significantly to the country’s development during a courtesy call to Ghana's Minister of Sports and Recreation, Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams.

The 23-year-old football sensation made the declaration on Thursday, July 17, 2025, during a visit to the Ministry of Sports in Accra. The visit, which was also attended by his father, Mr. Davies Doku, and other members of his family, formed part of a goodwill tour the Manchester City forward is embarking on to connect with his Ghanaian roots.

Doku, who was born in Belgium to Ghanaian parents, said he has never forgotten his heritage despite building his career in Europe. “I owe a lot to Ghana. This is my home. My upbringing, my culture, and my identity are tied to this country,” he said. “Now that I am in a position to make a difference, it is only right that I give back.”

He added that he is planning to launch a number of initiatives in Ghana focused on youth development, sports infrastructure, and education. According to him, one of his major goals is to set up a sports foundation to identify and nurture football talents across the country, especially in underprivileged communities.

“It’s important that we create opportunities for young people to dream big. There are so many talented boys and girls in Ghana who just need a platform. I want to be part of building that platform,” Doku emphasized.

In response, Minister Kofi Adams commended Doku for his humility and patriotic spirit. “It is heartwarming to see a young man who has achieved so much in his career still remember where he comes from. Ghana is proud of you, and we are excited about your willingness to invest in the country’s future,” the Minister said.

Mr. Adams further encouraged Doku to collaborate with local sports institutions to ensure that his plans are sustainable and inclusive. “We will be happy to work with you to formalize these ideas and make sure they have a lasting impact,” he added.

The visit also included the symbolic presentation of a Manchester City jersey bearing Doku’s name and number (11) to the Minister. Smiles and applause filled the room as the football star handed over the shirt, representing his club and his personal commitment to Ghana.

The announcement has since drawn praise from fans and public figures across Ghana and the diaspora. Social media platforms have been buzzing with admiration for the Manchester City winger, with many hailing him as a role model for the younger generation.

Jeremy Doku’s rise to fame has been meteoric. Since joining Manchester City from Stade Rennais in 2023, he has become an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s squad, known for his pace, dribbling, and creativity on the pitch. His performances in the English Premier League and UEFA Champions League have earned him a strong global following.

As Doku continues to shine on the international stage, his promise to give back to Ghana marks not just a return home, but a step toward bridging his success with meaningful social impact.

With his heart in Ghana and his feet dazzling on football’s grandest stages, Jeremy Doku is setting a powerful example of how sports and patriotism can intersect for national development.