2022 Kirin Cup: Ghana lose 4-1 to Japan in tournament opener
The Black Stars of Ghana suffered a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of hosts Japan in their Kirin Cup opener at the National Stadium in Tokyo.
The Black Stars went into the game missing several starters due to ailment and personal issues as coach Otto Addo fielded a weaker side against the Blue Samurai.
Japan got off to a great start with Yamane Miki netting the opener on the half our mark following an intricate passing move by the Blue Samurai.
Crystal Palace star Jordan Ayew leveled a minute before half time after firing right at the edge of the box but lack of concentration saw Japan take the lead again before half time as Nitoma Kaoru’s cross evaded everyone to beat goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
After the break Real Mallorca star Takefusa Kubo connected from a cross to give Japan a two goal lead before Daizen Maeda sealed victory with eight minutes left.
The rational behind Ghana’s participation in the Kirin (Four Nations Tournament) is to prepare the team adequately for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, where the Black Stars have been drawn into Group H along with Asian opponents South Korea, Uruguay and Portugal.
Ghana suffer their first defeat under Otto Addo after winning one and drawing three in their last four games.
Ghana will face Chile in their next match after they lost to Tunisia by 2-0.
