ACCRA, July 20 (Xinhua) -- The government of Ghana has congratulated the country's senior women's national football team for reaching the semifinals of the ongoing Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

A statement released on Sunday, signed by Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams, observed that the feat was remarkable after almost nine years of having failed to reach the WAFCON semifinals.

"On behalf of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the government of Ghana, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Black Queens on qualifying for the semifinals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. This is the first time since 2016 that Ghana has reached this stage, and it is a proud moment for all of us," said Adams.

The Black Queens secured their semifinal place after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout over Algeria on Saturday, following a goalless draw after extra time at Stade Mohamed V stadium in Casablanca.

Ghana will face host Morocco in the semifinals at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday. ■