Linda Eshun scored the winner on 49 minutes when she headed the ball home from close range following a corner.

South Africa were once again forced to regret countless chances that they squandered, in an encounter in which they were by far the better side for large periods.

In the first half South Africa had the best chances but Refiloe Jane headed over the bar, before another header was well saved by Ghana keeper Patricia Mantey.

The South Africans also missed an excellent opportunity to equalise when Andisiwe Mcgoyi put a simple chance over the bar.

The introduction of skillful forward Thembi Kgatlana in the dying moments almost paid dividends for the South Africans but it proved too late as Ghana held on for victory.

South Africa had to settle for fourth place - just as they did two years ago - while Ghana claimed a first bronze medal since 2004.

Nigeria will be looking to claim a 10th title in 12 editions of the competition when they go up against Cameroon in the final tomorrow.

The Super Falcons take on the hosts, also known as the Indomitable Lionesses, in Yaounde in a repeat of the 2014 final in Namibia, which the Nigerians won 2-0.

Cameroon have yet to win the tournament but their impressive defensive displays have meant they are yet to concede a goal in this year's event.

The hosts' brightest star is 24-year-old striker Gaelle Enganamouit, who has been nominated for the 2016 BBC Women's Footballer of the Year award, however she is yet to find the net in the tournament.