Ghana wrap up AFCON qualifiers with win against São Tomé

Ghana humbled São Tomé and Principe 3-1 in the final 2021 Africa Cup of Nations Group C qualifier Sunday afternoon.

The Black Stars had already picked a ticket to the tournament, scheduled for Cameroon following last Thursday’s 1-1 draw against South Africa. Coach Akonnor made four changes to the squad - bringing into the side, captain Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey and Osman Bukari. The quartet replaced Afriyie Acquah, Kwame Opoku, Caleb Ekuban and Emmanuel Gyasi. The visitors started the game on a front foot but fell behind inside 13 minutes as Nicholas Opoku headed in a corner from Jordan Ayew.

Jordan Ayew won a penalty for Ghana on the half hour mark after he was tripped from behind in the São Tomé box. The former Aston Villa man converted with ease to give Ghana the second goal.

The Black Stars went into the break with a 2-0 cushioning.

Back from recess, Coach Akonnor brought in 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup winner Gladson Awako for Osman Bukari. Ghana continued to dominate and as a result, scored the third goal - a Kudus Mohammed assist, drilled home by Baba Abdul Rahman.

Coach C.K Akonnor introduced Justice Blay, Ibrahim Moro, Kwasi Okyere Wreidt and Kwame Opoku Afriyie.

The Black Stars cheaply gave a goal away 7 minutes from time when goalkeeper Razak Abalora passed from the back to an opponent - Fernandez Cavalho Iniesta who slotted home for the consolation - as the game ended 3-1.

Ghana thus qualify for a record ninth straight Africa Cup of Nations - finishing first in Group C with 13 points from 6 games, one point ahead of Sudan who beat South Africa 2-0 in Khartoum to finish behind Ghana with 12 points.

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