The Black Stars of Ghana were held to a goalless draw by a stubborn Ugandan side in the opening 2018 world cup qualifying game played in Tamale earlier today.
The Black Stars failed to break down their plucky opponents who game into the game with a well rehearsed plan to soak up the pressure and hit the Stars on the counter, and they executed the plan to perfection, holding out for a massive goalless draw away from home.
Uganda started out the more dangerous of the two sides, controlling possession and keeping Ghana pinned back in our own half. The Cranes managed to create a couple of good chances with good runs down the flank but failed to threaten goalkeeper Razak Braimah.
Ghana started to assert more control over the game as time went on, holding onto the ball and passing it around. But most was ponderous possession with no real end game, and the Star’s first real threat of the game arrived close to half time, when Afful was released down the right and his cross met Jordan Ayew’s wayward volley.
Ghana arrived for the second half more purposeful and looking more threatening, and started creating some good chances. Gyan hit a freekick straight into the hands of Uganda’s Dennis Oyango in goal, whist Daniel Amartey’s powerful header from a corner was tipped over by the in-form goalie.
Avram Grant, sensing time running out, rang the offensive changes, with Jeffrey Schlupp and Majeed Warris coming on for Frank Achaempong and Christian Atsu, but neither were able to really affect the game. Uganda resolutely held on for the draw despite an improved second half from Ghana and numerous set pieces that were simply squandered by the players.
The draw represents a terrible start for the Stars, who travel to Egypt for the second group game in November. Uganda would be happy with a point, and would wait to host Congo to get their first win of the campaign. The next group game is on Sunday when Congo hosts 7 time African champions Egypt.