Black Stars of Ghana have been defeated 4 : 1 by Japan this morning. Crystal Palace attacker Jordan Ayew got the consolation for the West African nation. The international friendly game becomes the first loss of head coach Otto Addo and his entire staff. After assuming the role as the leader of the technical bench, coach Otto – prior to today’s game – had played four matches, drew three and won a game.
Coach Otto Addo and his henchmen played goalless draw against Nigeria in Kumasi, drew 1 : 1 with the same opponent, recorded a victory against Madagascar and shared spoils with Central African Republic.
Today’s encounter with Japan afforded the Otto Addo another remarkable experience, getting to know the strength and capabilities of some of the players. This is evident in the line up paraded for the friendly affair. Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi conceded against Central African Republic but he was given another opportunity to make amends, consuming four goals today, though some of the goals could be attributed to defensive blemishes.
Seidu Alidu and Dennis Korsah had a fine moment to exhibit what they could offer Otto Addo and the entire team Should they be called up in future. Mubarak Wakaso, who has not been playing of late due to injury – was handed the chance to prove his readiness for serious business. He used to command regular spot until he got injured ahead of this year’s African Cup of Nations in Cameroon. Same was given Christopher Antwi.
In All, the line up against Japan had only four regular players as the rest went through a rigorous assessment of how they should be handled in subsequent matches. The four regular players are Dede Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Kudus Mohammed and Daniel Amartey. Despite the scalp, coach Otto Addo is gradually getting to know players who have been warming bench during national assignment. If most of them are to be left out of impending call ups, not much could be said since they have had the opportunity to justify if they merit Black Stars invite or other players have to be pursued.
Not much emphasis must be dwelt on the outcome but what increasing rate at which players get the a game time in the national colors and how good or bad they have been. It is just a matter of time for Otto Addo to put together a formidable squad that can compete at the world stage.
Content created and supplied by: Abdul-Jalilu (via Opera
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