Ghana boss Chris Hughton reveals reason for benching Thomas Partey in Angola game
Coach Chris Hughton opens up on Thomas Partey’s absence from Ghana’s 1-1 draw with Angola
Arsenal FC star Thomas Teye Partey was absent in Ghana’s away draw to Angola on Monday in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Ghana made a trip to Luanda for the second leg of the qualifier match, drawing 1-1 with the Palancas Negras of Angola. The host took the lead after converting a goal from the spot before substitute Osman Bukari levelled for the visitors in the 72nd minute mark to snatch a point from the Estadio 11 de Novembro in Luanda.
Partey in the absence of Andre Ayew was expected to lead the team as deputy captain but was benched.
Ghana made four changes to the squad that beat the Angola national team 1-0 in Kumasi four days ago as Kingsley Schindler, Joseph Aidoo, Abdul Samed Salis and Antoine Semenyo started ahead of Denis Odoi, Alexander Djiku, Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams.
Speaking to the press after the game, Chris Hughton disclosed that the key midfielder was left on the bench due to a minor injury.
“Thomas has a small injury issue and we felt it was too big of a risk to start him,” Chris Hughton shortly stated.
Ghana lead Group E with 8 points after four matches following two wins and two draws.
The Black Stars will host Central African Republic and travel to Madagascar in the final two matches in Group E.
Story Kolog Bonaventure