Black Queens of Ghana faced a devastating exit from the 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers, succumbing to a 4-3 aggregate loss against Zambia.
Despite a spirited performance in Ndola on February 28, 2024, the Black Queens suffered heartbreak when they conceded a stoppage-time goal, shattering their hopes of qualifying for the next Olympic Games.
In the second leg, Ghana managed to secure a 3-3 draw against the Copper Queens. However, Zambia’s 1-0 victory in the first leg in Accra proved decisive, propelling them into the final round of qualifiers.
Barbra Banda, Zambia’s captain, opened the scoring in the thrilling encounter with a goal in the 11th minute.
Gifty Assifuah swiftly equalised for Ghana four minutes later, ending the first half with a 1-1 deadlock.
After the break, Doris Boaduwaa put Ghana ahead five minutes into the second half.
However, Kabange Mupopo’s goal for the Copper Queens in the 61st minute levelled the match and secured Zambia’s lead on aggregate once again.
Just four minutes later, substitute Azumah Bugri regained the lead for Ghana, levelling the aggregate score once again.
With the game seemingly heading towards extra time, the Black Queens suffered a setback as they conceded a free kick on the edge of the box just seconds before the final whistle.
Jennifer Cudjoe, the culprit, received her second booking and was subsequently sent off.
In a dramatic twist, Barbra Banda stepped up to take the free kick, which turned out to be the last action of the game.
She expertly dispatched the free kick, restoring parity and putting Zambia back in the lead on aggregate (4-3).
This heartbreaking elimination means that the Black Queens of Ghana have now failed to qualify for the Olympic Games in seven attempts.
On the other hand, Zambia will advance to face Morocco in the final round of qualifiers, after Morocco eliminated Tunisia in their match.