Ghana beat Central African Republic (CAR) late in the game to qualify for AFCON 2023.
At the Baba Yara Stadium, the Ghanaian Black Stars overcame a goal deficit to overcome the Central African Republic (CAR) 2-1 to secure their place in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Mohammed Kudus and Ernest Nuamah, two young people, excelled under Chris Hughton’s direction. As the top contenders from Group E, Kudus’ accurate free-kick in the 43rd minute and Nuamah’s close-range strike in the 88th minute ensured their progress to Cote d’Ivoire.
The Wild Beasts of CAR demonstrated their superiority in the first exchanges, which was evidence of their aggressive strategy. The tide shifted in favour of CAR when Louis Mafouta scored in the 25th minute by taking advantage of a weakness in Ghana’s defense.
Goduine Koyalipou’s earlier attempt had forced an acrobatic save from Ghana’s goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, setting the stage for the high-stakes clash.
The Black Stars were unable to create chances from open play, but a critical setpiece near the 18-yard box gave them hope. Just before halftime, Kudus equalised the score by skillfully slipping the ball past CAR custodian Geoffrey Lembet with his left foot.
The score stayed even as the sides regrouped at halftime, paving the way for a thrilling second half.
CAR continued to use aggressive tactics, relentlessly pressuring Ghana’s tenacious defence. A powerful rebound shot nearly missed the goal, while Nuamah’s attempt, which was directed by Salis Abdul Samed, ended up safely nestled in Lembet’s hands.
Then, Antoine Semenyo’s exquisite pass was taken advantage of by Ernest Nuamah, who scored in a flash of brilliance. With his precise finish, the 19-year-old Lyon striker gave Ghana the victory and guaranteed them a spot in the AFCON for the 10th straight year.
