Ghana survived a late fightback from Congo to secure a winning start in the 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations tournament on Sunday.
The Black Meteors looked set for a comfortable victory with two goals from substitute Emmanuel Yeboah and a close-range finish from Ernest Nuamah. However, the Congolese team made a spirited comeback, setting up a tense ending with two goals in stoppage time.
Yeboah, who replaced captain Daniel Afriyie Barnieh at halftime, set up Nuamah with an intelligent pass to tap in Ghana’s first goal. It was nearly 2-0 after a daring attempt from Fatawu Issahaku from his own half hit the post.
Nevertheless, Yeboah overcame his marker and unleashed a low shot that beat the goalkeeper, securing Ghana’s second goal. He then went on to score a penalty. Edmund Arko-Mensah had two opportunities to convert the penalty he won but missed. Fortunately, the goalkeeper Dhody Foutou was off his line on both occasions, resulting in a third kick, which Yeboah calmly converted.
In added time, the Black Meteors became complacent and lost focus, allowing Congo to score two goals within one minute, courtesy of Reich Kokolo and Yann Ngatse.
These goals ensured a nervy finish, but the Black Meteors managed to hold on for a victorious start. Ghana’s next match is against the host nation, Morocco, on Tuesday, followed by the final game in their group stage campaign against Guinea. Ghana currently share the top spot in Group A with Morocco after the first round of games.
