Ghana’s qualification to the 2013 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa took a boost when they beat Malawi 2-0 in their first leg match played at the Accra Sports Stadium over the weekend.

Goals in each half from Christian Atsu and Anthony Annan ensured that the Black Stars gained a cushion ahead of the second leg in Malawi, where the winner of both legs would be present at Africa’s prestigious football event next year.

The match, which attracted a fairly large crowd, including the Vice President of Ghana, H.E. Kwesi BekoeAmissah-Arthur, was preceded by a message of fair play from FIFA, read on behalf of the team by stand-in Captain, Asamoah Gyan.

Hopes of the Black stars to record a cricket score was enhanced right from kick-off when as early as the 7th minute, Atsu put Ghana ahead.

The Flames of Malawi were however not awed by the array of the Black Stars and held their own, with a lot of ball passing and threatening the Stars on some occasions.

The Black Stars also wasted several chances on adding up to their tally, with brilliant displays from ‘man of the match’ Atsu, creating chances, which were not utilised till the end of the first half.

The second half saw the Black Stars upping their game and seeking the second goal which came through Anthony Annan in the 51st minute, who let off a bullet shot that zoomed straight into the net, sending the Ghanaian fans into frenzy.

The Ayew brothers were substituted by Coach Kwesi Appiah, who brought on Derek Boateng and Solomon Asante, with Asamaoh Gyan also being replaced by Emmanuel Clottey, but nothing much changed in the game plan.

Although down by two goals, the Flames were not swayed by the score line and also tried several shots at goal to get at least a consolation goal. Their quest saw them resort to rough play which resulted in the sending off of James Sangala in the 81st minute for a second bookable offense.

Both teams appeared content with the scoreline, holding on to the ball, albeit trying their chances till Referee Benouza Mohammed whistled for the end of the match.

Starting Line-up: Adam Kwarasey, Daniel Opare, Harrison Afful, John Boye, Isaac Vorsah, Anthony Annan, Christian Atsu, Jordan Ayew, Asamoah Gyan, Kwadwo Asamoah, Andre Ayew.

Reserves: Samuel Inkoom, Derek Boateng, Jerry Akaminko, Isaac Coffie, Solomon Asante, Emmanuel Clottey, Fatau Dauda

Source: ISD (Larry George Botchway & James A. Hackman)

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