The Black Stars of Ghana began their 2023 AFCON qualifiers on a convincing note as they trounced Madagascar by three goals to nil at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium to secure the top spot in Group E.
The Black Stars, who beat rivals Nigeria by virtue of the away goal rule to make it to Qatar 2022 were supremely dominant right from start to finish.
Coach Otto Addo’s charges were in a desperate search of an opener in the early stages of the game, with Abdul Fatawu Issahaku going close to scoring. The Stars’ dominance continued throughout the first half but the Malagasy’s goalkeeper, Razakarinina Rakotohasimbola was barely tested in that period.
Indeed, Ghana could not break down the stubborn defence of Madagascar in the first half as they mastered only one attempt on target.
The four-time African champions began the second half with more urgency and purpose and they found the needed breakthrough in the 53rd minute when Mohammed Kudus tapped As Roma’s starlet, Felix Afena Gyan’s cutback in an empty net. Five minutes later, the latter scored his first goal for the senior national team when he converted Gideon Mensah’s cross into a goal.
Emotions were at fever pitch at the Cape Coast Stadium when substitute Osman Bukari produced a composed finish to put the icing on the cake.
The win means Ghana have ended their five-game winless streak in style. It also implies the Black Stars occupy the top spot in Group E with three points and three goals. Angola follows closely with three points and a goal, with the Central African Republic and Madagascar occupying third and fourth places respectively.
Next up for the Black Stars is a date with the Central African Republic on June 5 while Madagascar host Angola on the same day.
Source:Â A1radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Elijah Beyeni Yenibey|Bolgatanga
