By 
In Ndola, Ghana’s Black Queens experienced disappointment despite securing a draw on Wednesday, February 28, thus extinguishing their aspirations for Olympic Games qualification. Barbra Banda’s double ensured a 3-3 draw, allowing Zambia to qualify on aggregate against Ghana.
The Black Queens entered the match following a 1-0 defeat at the Accra Sports Stadium last Friday but were optimistic about reversing the outcome.
Banda netted the first goal in the 10th minute, while Gifty Assifuah, introduced to the starting lineup in place of Freda Ayisi, leveled the score for Nora Hauptle’s team. At halftime, both teams were evenly matched, with the home team leading 2-1 on aggregate.
Nevertheless, Ghana took the lead in the 55th minute courtesy of a brilliant goal from Doris Boaduwaa, only for Kabange Mupopo to level the score six minutes later. Azumah Bugri, entering the match as a substitute, seemed to secure extra time with a goal.
A foul late in the game by Jennifer Cudjoe saw her sent off for a second yellow card with Banda stepping up to beat Vivian Antwi Adjei in the Ghana goal from the resulting free kick.
Her second goal ensured a 3-3 result on the day with the Copper Queens claiming a 4-3 aggregate win.
The loss dashes Ghana’s hopes of participating in the 2024 Olympic Games, having successfully navigated challenges from Guinea and Benin. The team will redirect its focus towards preparations for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Morocco.
