Ghana will enter the 2022 World Cup full of confidence following a 2-0 victory over Switzerland in Abu Dhabi.
Second half goals from Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Salisu were enough to give Otto Addo the positive result.
Here are five talking points from the game.
Ghana can compete with the best in World Cup
Heading into the game, many were pessimistc following the poor performances against Brazil and Nicaragua.
But they performed really well against a team that have competed against the best in the world to good effect. Otto Addo’s men were up to the task from start to finish, giving Ghanaians hope of something to come after winning the game.
Daniel Afriyie Barnieh was born for the big stage
After the lineups were released by the two teams, a surprising name was included; Hearts of Oak’s Daniel Afriyie Barnieh. Before today, he had tasted just a handful of minutes and many were unsure if he would play more before the World Cup starts.
Otto Addo gave him a chance and he didn’t dissapoint. He was a livewire, switching flanks and causing havoc to the defenders. He arguably should have won a penalty after he was brought down in the box. If Otto needs someone to make an impact on the biggest stage, he can definitely call Barnieh.
Salis Samed and Elisha Owusu can form solid partnership
The midfield pairing of Salis Abdul Samed and Elisha Owusu was a suspect one especially with the absence of Thomas Partey. The two players are only known to recycle possession, not adept at playing penetrative passes.
But they surprised viewers with their excellent positioning and willingness to play risky passes. Their presence kept Ghana competitive throughout. With Partey’s fitness constantly in question, it would seem that the technical team now have good options to replace the Arsenal man.
Jordan Ayew deserves some credit
In recent years, Jordan Ayew has been the subject of criticism by Ghanaians for his goal drought and poor performances.
And perhaps, many expected him to be dropped by Otto Addo for today. But he was given a starting place and did the business from the front. He was consistently making himself available for the ball and driving forward when he had it.
The arguments for his place will still continue, but fans must remember his admirable showing against Switzerland today.
Tariq Lamptey could be the solution to right-back problems
Over the last few years, coaches have tried different players at the right-back position after John Paintsil’s retirement without success. Recently, Denis Odoi joined the pack, giving Ghanaians hope of something to come.
But it can be argued that Tariq Lamptey is the best man for the job. He has everything; pace, positioning and bravery needed for the position. Against a pacy winger like Leao, Lamptey would be the perfect counter.
Source: Bill Eshun (3Sports)
