CHAN 2022: Black Galaxies suffer defeat to Madagascar
The locally-based players from Ghana, popularly known as Black Galaxies could not stand Madagascar in their opening match of the 2022 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship ongoing in Algeria.
At the Stade Chahid Hamlaoui, Ghana succumbed to a 2-1 defeat to Madagascar after conceding in both halves of the encounter.
Poor defending in the early stages of the clash saw coach Annor Walker side concede the opener from the left side through to the central defence line. Goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim could not deal with situation as ball ended in his net.
Nevertheless, Ghana came good in the last 15 minutes of the first half where they showed glimpses of a better display after recess. However, an early set-back in the second department nailed the Black Galaxies to the wood, following a back pass to Danlad Ibrahim from right-back defender Augustine Randolph.
Madagascar counted on the loose ball, to double their lead even before the hour mark.
Minutes later, Annor Walker made a substitute by introducing Asante Kotoko SC right-back Augustine Agyapong for Karela United’s Randolph.
Few minutes on the pitch, Agyapong announced his presence with a screamer to reduce the deficit in the 67th minute. A long range curler from the right deceived Madagascar shot-stopper who thought was a cross in delivered for attackers but little did he know it was going into his net.
Several chances came the way of Black Galaxies but always had Madagascar Goalkeeper saving the situation.
David Abagna and Afriyie Barnieh came close to netting the equalizer but were denied.
An additional minute of six which was added on, was not enough for Ghana to pick a draw rather lost 2-1 in their opener.
Ghana will next face Sudan in their second group game and will need to annex all points provided they want to progress from Group.
Story Kolog Bonaventure
