SAN FRANCISCO, November 17, (THEWILL) – Mohamed Abdel Rahman scored at the death as hosts Sudan beat Ghana 1-0 to breathe life into their chances of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be staged in Cameroon in 2022 while making sure Ghana’s path to the tournament is stretched some more.
The Black Stars looked to be headed for qualification even with two games remaining as even just a point from this tie promised them an unassailable lead on 10 points.
But, Rahman headed home the goal that lifted Sudan up to six points in Group C and brightens their hope for qualification to the competition they have failed to feature in since 2012.
The Ghanaians were looking to complete a double over the Sudanese having beaten them 2-0 in the first leg. But, with top striker and skipper Andre Ayew missing through injury, it appeared a most uphill task.
Chances were not as forthcoming as both sides could have desired. Ghana’s Caleb Ekuban had half a chance after 10 minutes with a shot from the right that went wide. Sudan’s chance came after 27 minutes. It was an Abdel Rahman’s shot from inside the box, which was saved while his attempt at cutting back the ball from the rebound ended in no man’s land.
In the 36th minute, Ghana’s Mubarak Wakaso sent Tarique Fosu through with a brilliant defense-splitting pass, but the Sudanese keeper, Hamid Ahmed was aware and displayed quick judgement to clear the danger.
Ghana improved their forward play in the second half and Jordan Ayew, who had the skipper’s armband in his brother’s place, saw his shot from range well saved by Ahmed. On the hour mark, Wakaso had another go at goal with a rasping effort from a freekick which was also saved.
There was not much creative flair from Sudan. Their best opportunity was a 75th-minute shot Ahmed Hamid Al-Tash produced on the half turn inside the box that went wide.
Ghana had a late chance to try and break the deadlock from another set piece, but Ayew saw his effort handled by Ahmed.
For all the missed opportunities, the Black Stars were punished in the second minute of added time. Rahman rose highest inside the box to head home a Ramadan Agab cross from the right to win it for the hosts.
Ghana remains in contention on top of the group on goal difference though equal on points with South Africa. Since Sao Tome and Principe is out of contention, the race for the group’s two slots are now left for the top three.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
