GHANA PLACES THIRD IN WOMEN’S NATIONS CUP

African football giant Ghana has placed third in the ongoing Women’s African Cup of Nations after defeating South Africa in the third place match.

Ghana would be happy with the consolation despite the slim margin victory over South Africa in the game played on Friday. Coach Yussif Basigi started goalkeeper Patricia Mantey, midfielder Mary Essiful, and forward Florence Dadson for the first time in the tournament. His South African counterpart named goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, Andisiwe Mgcoyi, Germaine Seoposenwe, and Refiloe Jane in his starting squad as they hoped for a bronze medal after losing to Nigeria in the semi finals.

South Africa had their chances in the 22nd minute but Jane could not quite place the header well, as it went over the framework. Another good chance minutes later by the 24-year old did not score as goalkeeper Mantey saved the Black Queens.

Linda Eshun scored in the 48th minute to send the Ghanaians ahead at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaounde. Eshun got the goal heading from close range following a corner kick. Banyana Banyana also had their chances to equalize through Andisiwe Mcgoyi who sent the ball over the bar, leaving Ghanaian fans frustrated.

Though there would be no opportunity at participating in the women’s World Cup with the bronze medal – unlike a few years back – both sides did not want to go back home empty handed.

Ghana would have to make do with the third place finish and have another go at the elusive gold medal when they host the 2018 edition. At least the team won a medal since their silver medal in 2006. South Africa settled for a top four finish as they did two years ago.

Nigeria is set to play hosts Cameroon in a much-anticipated clash on Saturday.