Ghana’s U-23 national team delivered a commanding performance, securing a resounding victory over Congo at the Prince Moulay Abdullah Stadium in Rabat, propelling them to the top of Group A in the ongoing 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
With more goals scored, the Black Meteors currently sit atop the group standings, level on points with the host nation, Morocco. Although Morocco claimed a 2-1 victory over Guinea a day prior, Ghana’s three-goal haul gives them the edge heading into their upcoming clash on Tuesday.
Under the astute guidance of coach Ibrahim Tanko, strategic changes were made during halftime, as Emmanuel Yeboah and Hafiz Ibrahim replaced Daniel Afriyie Barnieh and Silvester Simba to inject fresh energy into the team.
The impact of the substitutions was immediate, as Yeboah swiftly made his presence felt. In the 50th minute, he provided a precise assist to Ernest Nuamah, who confidently converted the chance, granting Ghana the lead.
Shortly thereafter, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku came close to scoring a spectacular long-range effort from his own half, only to be denied by the woodwork.
In the 75th minute, Yeboah showcased his clinical finishing skills once again, finding the back of the net to extend Ghana’s advantage. Just eight minutes later, he coolly dispatched a penalty, completing his brace in dramatic fashion.
The penalty was actually the third attempt, as Edmund Arko Mensah initially missed the spot-kick, but the opportunity was granted once more due to an infringement by the goalkeeper, who had stepped off his line.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Congo staged a late comeback with two quick goals during stoppage time, courtesy of Reich Kokolo and Yann Ngatse. Although their efforts fell short, their late surge injected excitement into the match’s final moments.
