Ghana’s dreams of qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup were tragically dashed when the Black Starlets lost to Uganda 8-7 on penalties in an exciting match that ended 2-2 after normal time.
Both teams engaged in a hard battle for a coveted position at the global championship during the match, which was full of drama, tension, and brilliant moments. From the first whistle, Ghana looked determined and had a bright start.
When rising sensation Eric Gyamfi opened the score with a calm finish in the ninth minute, their early pressure paid dividends.
Gyamfi gave the Black Starlets an early lead after rifling the ball through Uganda custodian Lukyamuzi’s legs after being entirely unmarked at the back post.
However, after adopting a three-man defensive lineup, Uganda reacted favourably.
The East Africans started to dominate possession and create threatening possibilities as soon as the tactical change was made.
The catalyst for Uganda’s comeback was Captain Owen Mukise.
Twelve minutes before halftime, Mukise found the equaliser in spectacular fashion by scoring straight from a corner kick after forcing Ghana goalkeeper John Annan to save a strong long-range effort.
Uganda continued to pose a threat as the first half finished in a draw. Uganda’s rising confidence was demonstrated just two minutes into the second half when midfielder John Owino struck the crossbar with a powerful effort.
Abdul Latif helped Ghana regain the lead against Uganda’s dominance.
Eric Gyamfi masterfully organised the goal, as Latif calmly stabbed the ball home after Clement Agyei had dummied Gyamfi’s dangerous cross from the left flank.
Ghana appeared set to maintain their narrow lead as the game came to a close. But when Uganda called for a handball inside Ghana’s penalty area, late drama ensued.
After Uganda coach Laryea Kingston sought a VAR review, the referee found that right-back Nicholas Asumang had handled the ball and pointed to the penalty spot.
To make it 2-2, Ibanda Arafat boldly stepped up and converted the penalty, sending custodian John Annan in the wrong direction.
The game was forced into a penalty shootout after ten minutes of extra time failed to separate the teams.
Ghana coach Prosper Ogum made a daring tactical decision prior to the shootout by bringing in defender Mark Mensah and custodian Michael Armah especially for penalties.
Unfortunately, Uganda maintained their composure to win the shootout 8–7, therefore the Black Starlets’ risk did not pay off.
Uganda has now qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for just the second time in their history after making it to the competition the previous year, making this a historic accomplishment.
However, Ghana, a country with a rich history at the youth level and a proud football heritage, views the loss as yet another devastating setback.
Source: newsthemegh.com