Ghana beats Egypt 3-0 ahead of Nations Cup

Ghana beat Egypt 3-0 on Thursday in Abu Dhabi in their first friendly match before 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

And the result is Ghana’s biggest win in history against the North African side.

Emmanuel Agyemang Badu’s first half goal and a second half double from Richmond Boakye-Yiadom and captain Asamoah Gyan handed the Black Stars victory over the seven-time Nations Cup winners, the Pharaohs, who failed to qualify for this year’s finals in South Africa.

There were plenty positives from a game that Ghana saw too much of the ball – looking more like the real thing.

Though it is unwise to read too much into pre-tournament friendlies, Kwesi Appiah’s team showed enough enthusiasm and promise, scoring three great goals and defended well.

But Appiah knows that there may be greater challenges ahead and perhaps more motivated opponents when the tournament starts in South Africa.

Agyemang Badu put the Black Stars in front in the 17th minute when he nodded in from the near post, a Mubarak Wakaso freekick from the far-right.

Ghana’s bench were forced into a substitution as Anthony Annan was withdrawn for Derek Boateng after picking a knock.

The Black Stars held onto their lead to end the first half 1-0 against Bob Bradley’s side who occasionally threatened but goalkeeper Fatau Dauda was equal to the task.

Ghana returned from the break, making just one change with Boakye-Yiadom coming on for Emmanuel Clottey.

And the substitute got the second goal eight minutes after recess when he placed the ball past the Egyptian goalkeeper Ahmed Al Shenawy after being beautifully set up by a Kwadwo Asamoah pass with the heel.

Christian Atsu and Asamoah Gyan also entered the fray for Agyemang Badu and Rabiu Mohammed.

Defender Richard Kissi Boateng also made his senior debut when he came on for Mubarak Wakaso.

And both substitutes played a role in Ghana’s third goal. Atsu’s fine turn around a marker released Gyan who lobbed the goalkeeper.

Source: Ghana FA