In a dazzling display of skill and determination, the Ghana Beach Soccer team have secured their spot in the 2024 Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to be held in Egypt.
The Black Sharks clinched their qualification with a resounding 5-2 victory over the Ivory Coast in the second leg of their playoff, cementing a 10-5 aggregate win.
The atmosphere was electric at the Stade de Agora in Abidjan as the two West African giants clashed in the decisive match.
The Ivorian side, buoyed by their home crowd, started with high energy and scored twice in the first period of the match.
Minutes into the second period of the match, Ghana’s substitute goalkeeper Robert Nyadedzor’s shot beat the Ivorian goalkeeper who was caught rooted to the spot.
Ghana’s vigor continued in the second period with Wise Nyamadi equalizing shortly after Nyadedzor’s goal.
Ghana’s resilience shone through as the Black Sharks took the lead with a cheeky goal from skipper Richard Martei Osai.
In the final period, the match continued to be a showcase of thrilling beach soccer. Ghana extended the lead with a powerful strike from Precious Torgbor before Jude Asante Aklie slotted in Ghana’s 5th goal on the day.
The aggregate score of 10-5 is a testament to Ghana’s offensive prowess and defensive solidity throughout the two-legged playoff.
This victory not only secures their place in the 2024 AFCON but also marks a significant achievement for Ghanaian beach soccer, a sport that has been steadily gaining prominence in the country.
Ghana’s head coach, Daniel Neequaye Kotey, expressed his elation in a post-match interview:
“I’m incredibly proud of the team’s performance. We came into this match with a clear strategy, and the players executed it flawlessly.
“Qualifying for the AFCON is a huge milestone for us, and we look forward to representing Ghana with pride in Egypt.”
As the Black Sharks prepare for the 2024 AFCON, the nation’s fans are already buzzing with anticipation.
The tournament, set to take place along the picturesque beaches of Egypt, promises to be an exciting showcase of Africa’s top beach soccer talent.
With Ghana’s impressive qualification performance, the stage is set for a thrilling tournament where they will look to make a significant impact and further establish themselves as a powerhouse in African beach soccer.
Credit: Ghana FA
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