Black Stars of Ghana lose 2-0 to Mexico’s El Tri in international friendly
The Black Stars of Ghana fell short on Sunday morning when the team locked horns with the Mexico, losing by two to nil in the United States of America.
This is the first of two international friendlies the Black Stars are engaging in as they are currently touring the United States as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers to begin in November.
The four-time African champions were off to a good start, launching early attacks. However, Mexico took control of the match from the 25th minute onward.
Ghana experienced a major setback when Joseph Aidoo was substituted in the 28th minute due to injury, with Clermont Foot’s Alidu Seidu stepping in.
Ghana adopted a three-defender formation that worked effectively for most of the first half, leading to a goalless draw at halftime.
In the second half, stand-in captain Thomas Partey was replaced by Salis Abdul Samed.
PSV Eindhoven star Hirving Lozano opened the scoring in the 57th minute, marking the game’s first goal.
Mexico extended their lead in the 72nd minute through Atuna, who capitalized on a counter-attack.
Chris Hughton introduced more offensive power, including Jordan Ayew, Ernest Nuamah, and Inaki Williams, making tactical changes following the second goal.
However, Ghana struggled to penetrate Mexico’s high defensive line. Atuna capitalized on an error in the 72nd minute to secure the second goal and the victory for Mexico.
Ghana will face the United States on Tuesday in Nashville, Tennessee, for their second friendly match.
Ghana are now winless in four games against Mexico’s El Tri with a 6-1 aggregate scoreline and failed to record a shot on target.
Coach Chris Hughton will hope his Black Stars will return to winning ways in the next game against the USA scheduled for Tuesday, October 17 in Nashville.
