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The Black Stars edged Central African Republic (CAR) 2-1 in a thrilling encounter at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Ghana is the latest entrant into the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, sealing their 24th appearance at the continental football showpiece.
The Black Stars edged Central African Republic (CAR) 2-1 in a thrilling encounter at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
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The match was a rollercoaster of emotions as both teams battled fiercely for the coveted qualification spot.
CAR stunned the home crowd when Louis Mafouta found the back of the net, giving the Wild Beasts an early lead. The Black Stars were not to be outdone, responding with vigour.
It was Mohammed Kudus, the new West Ham United signing, who delivered a moment of magic just before the halftime whistle.
Kudus struck a free kick that took a deflection off the CAR goalkeeper, Geoffrey Lembet, and nestled into the back of the net. The equalizer breathed life back into the Ghanaian camp.
As the second half commenced, both teams displayed their determination to clinch the qualifying spot.
Ghana probed the CAR defence, seeking the elusive winner, while CAR threatened on the counter-attack.
In the end, it was Ernest Appiah who etched his name into Ghanaian football history.
In the dying moments of the match, Antoine Semenyo capitalized on a defensive error, providing a pinpoint assist to Appiah, who calmly slotted the ball into the net.
The final whistle brought both relief and jubilation for the Black Stars. With this hard-earned victory, Ghana finished at the summit of Group E with 12 points.
Their journey to the continental tournament will be shared with Angola, who secured their place with a goalless draw against Madagascar.
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