AFCON2023Q: Central African Republic hold Ghana to a 1-1 draw
The Black Stars of Ghana were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Central African Republic in their second group game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Black Stars failed to make it back to back wins under Otto Addo but remain unbeaten in group E.
Ghana took the lead in the 17th minute through Ajax Amsterdam player, Mohammed Kudus, who delivered a sumptuous curler of a goal.
In what was a fantastic build-up, Afena-Gyan laid the ball to Osman Bukari who flicked the ball to Kudus to pick his spot and curl the ball beyond the reach of the goalkeeper.
Ghana’s goal was cancelled out by Karl Namnganda just before half time to bring the Central African Republic back into the game.
France-based Karl Namnganda smashed a powerful one past goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi after a threaded pass from Brad Pirioua.
Four minutes into the second half, the Central African Republic nearly took the lead after an eye-catching transitional play.
Left back Thibault Ban’s powerful delivery inside the Ghana box hit the side net much to the relief of the Black Stars.
The match was blighted by the serious injury sustained by Ghana defender Gideon Mensah who came out worse after colliding with an opponent and had to be rushed to a nearby health facility in an ambulance.
The Black Stars will return to the AFCON qualifiers in September when they play Angola in back to back games.
Immediately though, Otto Addo’s side will quickly turn their attention to the Kirin Cup which will be played in Japan.
