Ghana’s U-23 national team put on a dominant display, securing an impressive victory over Congo at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdullah Stadium, propelling them to the top of Group A in the ongoing 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
With a higher goal tally, the Black Meteors currently lead the group standings, tied on points with the host nation, Morocco. Despite Morocco’s 2-1 win over Guinea the previous day, Ghana’s three-goal haul gives them the advantage as they look ahead to their upcoming clash on Tuesday.
Under the expert guidance of coach Ibrahim Tanko, halftime brought strategic changes, with Emmanuel Yeboah and Hafiz Ibrahim coming on for Daniel Afriyie Barnieh and Silvester Simba to inject fresh energy into the team.
The impact of the substitutions was immediate, as Yeboah made an instant impact. In the 50th minute, he provided a precise assist to Ernest Nuamah, who confidently converted the opportunity, giving Ghana the lead.
Shortly after, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku came close to scoring a remarkable long-range effort from his own half, only to be denied by the woodwork.
In the 75th minute, Yeboah once again showcased his clinical finishing skills, finding the back of the net to extend Ghana’s advantage. Just eight minutes later, he calmly converted a penalty, completing his brace in a dramatic fashion.
Interestingly, the penalty had to be taken three times, as Edmund Arko Mensah initially missed the spot-kick, but the opportunity was granted again due to the goalkeeper stepping off his line.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Congo mounted a late comeback with two quick goals during stoppage time, courtesy of Reich Kokolo and Yann Ngatse. Although their efforts fell short, their late surge injected excitement into the final moments of the match.
