Ghana’s U-20 men’s World Cup campaign was ended after a surprise 3-0 defeat by Mali in Wellington.
The Black Satellites who have always reached the semi-finals under coach Sellas Tetteh, this time exited the competition in the knockout round.
Ghana made three changes to the starting line up. Tetteh opted for Patrick Kpozo for the suspended Patrick Asmah at left back while Osei Barnes and Emmanuel Boateng took the places of Asiedu Attobrah and Benjamin Tetteh.
After coming up tops in their group campaign, Ghana looked poised to advance but a 29th minute goal by Diadie Samassekou set the Young Eagles up for their big win.
Down by a goal after the opening 45 minutes, Ghana headed into the break looking to overcome a first half which saw few chances, though Mali perhaps shaded proceedings, certainly in terms of opportunities created.
The Black Satellites who beat the Young Eagles to take third spot at the CAF U-20 Championships in Senegal returned from the break eager to redeem themselves.
However, it was not going to be the easiest of tasks against a stronger Mali side in the ascendency.
Mali doubled their lead before the hour mark through Gbakle Dieudonne.
Ghana continued to chase the game but the Malians put the proceedings beyond the Black Satellites when Aboubabacar Doumbia scored to give Mali a suprise 3-0 win.
Coach Sellas Tetteh’s side who were tipped as one of the favourite’s for the tournament now face a disappointing exit from the competition.
Mali on the other hand will face either Germany or Nigeria in Christchurch for their quarter-finals tie.
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