Ghana edge South Africa for third spot News

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Ghana edge South Africa for third spot

By Daily Sports on December 3, 2016

Linda Eshun scored the lone strike to guide the Ghana Black Queens to a 1-0 win over South Africa in the third place playoff at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaounde on Friday.

Eshun got to the end of a corner-kick to dive and head the ball into the net after beating her marker, Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk, in the 49th minute.

A minute later, Mamello Makhabane could have equalised for South Africa but her effort was blocked by her teammate Precious Silindile Ngubane who had made a run into the box, much to the delight of the Ghanaian defence.

Jane Refiloe had two golden opportunities in front of goal but her headers went wide on two occasions as South Africa kept piling pressure on the Ghanaian defence.

Van Wyk almost found the back of the net but the goalkeeper made a great save to deny her.

Ghana were dealt a huge blow with injury after injury caused by cramps under the scorching sun and coach Yusif Bassigi was forced to make his first substitution just before the half-time mark with Priscilla Okyere replacing Juliet Acheampong.

Nine minutes into the second half, Andisiwe Mcgoyi missed a sitter in front of goal, much to the frustration of South African coach Desiree Ellis.

Injured Ghanaian Florence Dadson walked off in the 59th minute with Samira Suleman coming on as Ghana continued to withstand pressure from Banyana Banyana.

Ellis introduced the impressive Linda Motlaho who created an instant impact on South Africa’s attack, running into the box but her effort was cleared.

Bassigi was forced to make his last substitution due to injury again after Priscilla Saahene came on for Mary Essiful who limped off.

Portia Boakye continued to lead the Ghanaian charge but South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was up to the task.

Banyana Banyana’s Vilakaz struck a long-range effort but it was not enough to force overtime as they settled for fourth place for a second consecutive edition and extend their wait for an African crown. (supersport.com)

•Photo shows Ghana fan

Source Daily Sports

Posted December 3, 2016