Improved performance but blunt in attack as Stars suffer second loss in Kirin Cup
The showing against Japan last Friday was nothing short of abysmal, but despite losing both Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Salisu, the Black Stars showed themselves approved against South Korea.
The team put up an improved performance against the Taeguk Warriors in the Kirin Challenge Cup in Seoul, though they lost by a narrow 1-0 scoreline, a goal scored by Lee Tae-Seok midway through the second half.
Caleb Yirenkyi looked comfortable and decent in midfield with his energetic and all-round display. Paired with Sibo, the Stars were able to control some aspects of the game. Likewise, Jonas Adjetey was towering in defense alongside Kojo Oppong Peprah.
Prince Kwabena Adu, on his first start, made a good impression with his brilliant runs and ability to hold up play and wait for runners. In one moment, he kept his composure, went past the Korean goalkeeper and scored after receiving a clever through ball but only to be denied by the offside flag.
His performance today will leave a message in the heads of the technical team, who have decisions to make ahead of the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico next year.
Hearts of Oak shot-stopper Benjamin Asare stood to deny Hwang Hee-Chan from the spot, preventing Ghana from falling two goals behind.
Despite the impressive display, one noticeable concern popped up: a blunt attack.
Ghana controlled parts of the game but managed to create fewer meaningful chances. The Stars played eight shots in the game, with only one on target—a feeble attempt in the first half.
Altogether, Ghana produced only three shots on target from fifteen shots across the two games against Japan and South Korea, a worrying trend without the likes of Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew.
Kamaldeen Sulemana ana Christopher Bonsu Baah, the wingers on the day saw much of the ball but could create very little for the team.
Brandon Thomas-Asante who later came on showed glimpses of what he does for Coventry City in the Championship but none of his efforts were on target though not far off.
The next opportunity to test the mettle of the team will arrive in March as preparations intensify for the Mundial in North America.