By: Nana Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s Black Satellites faced off against Benin in their opening game of the WAFU Zone B Championship as they played out 2-2 draw in a keenly contested game. The game, which took place as part of the U20 AFCON Qualifiers, saw an early lead for Ghana, thanks to a swift goal by Jerry Afriyie in the 13th minute. This early strike set the tone for what would become a fiercely contested battle between the two teams.
Despite Ghana’s promising start, Benin responded with determination, turning the tables by the end of the first half. The Black Satellites found themselves trailing 2-1 after Benin managed to score two goals in quick succession. This unexpected turnaround demonstrated Benin’s resilience and ability to capitalize on their opportunities, leaving Ghana with a challenging task ahead in the second half.
As the match progressed, both teams displayed impressive skill and tenacity, creating numerous chances and keeping the spectators enthralled. Ghana, eager to avoid a loss in their opening game, pushed forward relentlessly. Their efforts were finally rewarded in the dying moments of the match when Jerry Afriyie once again stepped up, this time converting a crucial penalty to level the score at 2-2.
The final whistle confirmed a dramatic draw, with both teams earning a point each. For Ghana, the result was a testament to their fighting spirit and ability to recover under pressure. Jerry Afriyie’s performance, in particular, stood out as a highlight, showcasing his composure and skill in critical moments.
This opening match sets the stage for an exciting tournament ahead, with the Black Satellites eager to build on their performance against Niger in their next game on Sunday, October 20, 2024 and strive for success in the U20 AFCON Qualifiers.
