The Black Galaxies were held to a goalless draw by Nigeria in the first leg encounter of the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) final qualifier.
The match, which took place at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, December 22, finished in a draw, setting up a thrilling second leg in Nigeria next week.
Black Galaxies coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani named a strong starting lineup with Kotoko striker Albert Amoah leading the charge.
Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was in the goal post for Ghana while Basake Holy Stars midfielder Yakubu Issah captained the team.
The game started on a very cagey note, and the physique of the Nigerians made them win lots of the 50-50 balls in the midfield area.
Chances were hard to come by but Ghana captain Issah Yakubu had a glorious opportunity to give his side the lead, but Nigerian goalkeeper Henry Ozoemana was equal to the task.
The first half ended with Ghana slightly on top but failing to capitalise on the half chances that came their way.
It was a more balanced affair in the second half, and the introduction of Jerry Afriyie by Ghana coach Didi Dramani sparked the attack for the Black Galaxies.
However, Nigeria nearly stunned the host halfway through the second half, but Yusuf Anas’s deflected strike struck the goal post to the relief of Ghana goalkeeper Asare.
The Nigerians appeared satisfied with the goalless draw and did use some delaying tactics, much to the disgust of the few fans in the stadium.
Their tactic worked, as they held Ghana scoreless at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The stakes would certainly be high in the second
leg encounter, with the winner set to grab a qualification ticket to next year’s CHAN tournament in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
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