Ghana revived their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Somalia at the Essipong Sports Stadium in Sekondi-Takoradi on Thursday afternoon.
The Black Stars secured all three points in their opening Group C encounter of the November international window, ending a five-match winless run and giving interim head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren a winning start in competitive football.
Benjamin Asare – 6/10
Was rarely called into action but dealt confidently with the few efforts Somalia managed, making a couple of comfortable saves to preserve Ghana’s clean sheet.
Alidu Seidu – 6.5/10
Produced one of his better performances in recent outings. Defended well and made several dangerous forward runs, one of which led to Ghana winning a penalty.
Gideon Mensah – 6/10
Looked sharper and more composed than in previous matches. Offered balance defensively and supported the attack effectively.
Jonas Adjei Adjetey – 7.5/10
Formed a solid central defensive partnership with Mohammed Salisu and capped his display with the opening goal.
Mohammed Salisu – 7/10
A commanding presence at the heart of the defence. Read the game well and reminded everyone of the quality Ghana missed during his absence.
Thomas Partey – 7/10
Controlled the midfield with authority, breaking up play and dictating the tempo. A captain’s performance from the deputy skipper.
Caleb Yirenkyi – 7.5/10
Another mature display from the young midfielder, who continues to show remarkable development with his composure, energy and passing range.
Fatawu Issahaku – 7/10
Lively throughout the contest, causing problems down the flank with his pace and direct running.
Felix Afena-Gyan – 7/10
Scored an excellent goal that should do his confidence a world of good. Worked tirelessly and looked dangerous whenever he was in possession.
Jordan Ayew – 5.5/10
Missed an early penalty and never fully recovered. Although he made a few intelligent runs, he struggled to influence the game consistently.
Mohammed Kudus – 8.5/10 – Man of the Match
The standout performer on the night. Kudus was at the heart of Ghana’s attacking play, producing moments of brilliance and setting up a goal with a superb assist.
Substitutes
Ibrahim Sulemana – 5/10
Adapted well at right-back despite it not being his natural position and looked comfortable defensively.
Daniel Kofi Kyereh – 6/10
A pleasing return from injury. Showed flashes of his creativity and technical quality in an encouraging cameo.
Brandon Thomas-Asante – 4/10
Made a few positive runs and linked play well but had limited impact in front of goal during his brief appearance.
Prince Kwabena Adu – 5/10
Worked hard and found good positions but was unable to convert the opportunities that came his way.
Rahim Ibrahim – 5/10
An encouraging debut, keeping possession well and helping Ghana maintain control in midfield during the closing stages.
