The tension filled clash was a see-saw of emotions for Ghanaian fans, as Germany took the lead through a Mario Gotze header. A slight turnaround saw the Black Stars take the lead after Gyan turned in a sweet low strike to complement Ayew’s headed equaliser; but it was short-lived as substitute Miroslav Klose scored within a minute of coming on to equal Ronaldo’s all time world cup record of 15 goals.
The must win clash for the Stars kicked off at 19:00 GMT, with the result to be a huge determinant in the fortune of the Black Stars going forward.
Coach Kwesi Appiah, who has come in for tons of criticism following the opening day loss to USA; made three changes to his side in an attempt to get the win at the 2nd time of asking.
Prince Boateng and Harrison Afful came on for Jordan Ayew and Daniel Opare, whilst in goal Fatau Dauda took over from Adam Kwarasey.
A dour first ten minutes was largely dominated by the Germans, who calmly kept possession and tried to draw the Stars out of their shell but the Ghanaians remained resolute in maintaining men behind the ball.
It didn’t take long for Germany to threaten, Benedikt Howedes getting behind the Stars high line, but his low cross was beat away by Jonathan Mensah.
The Black Stars also made their presence felt in the game, with Sulley Muntari’s long cross field pass picking up Christian Atsu; but his low cross was fired way over the bar by skipper Asamoah Gyan.
Germany was still hording the bulk of possession, with the Stars content to sit back, soak the pressure, and try to hit Germany on the break.
After some neat interplay, Ozil laid a pass from the right to Kroos just outside the box, but the Bayern Munich midfielder’s shot was calmly blocked by Jonathan Mensah, whilst almost immediately at the other end Atsu’s fierce low drive had to be parried away by Manuel Neuer in the first real moment of desperation for the German defence.
Ghana continued that mini spell with a cross from Ayew swept away from Gyan by Mertesacker at the last moment.
The Stars defensive play was solid and disrupted Germany’s flow, but occasionally Ozil got clear to lay passes for Muller and Kroos beside him.