By Francis Kobena Tandoh
Ghana’s senior male national team, the Black Stars, suffered their first defeat by losing 2-1 to Croatia in their final Group L match in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Philadelphia on Saturday.
Croatia, who were hungrier, started brightly and nearly broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when Nikola Vlasic unleashed a powerful effort from the edge of the penalty area.
Their efforts, however, paid off in the 31st minute as Mateo Kovačić sent a brilliant pass to Petar Sucic on the edge of the area, delivering a low strike beyond Ghana’s goalkeeper Benjamin Asare to give Croatia a 1-0 lead.
Ghana struggled to create clear-cut chances during the opening hour but gradually improved after making a series of substitutions.
However, their persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when debutant Derrick Luckassen marked his first appearance for the Black Stars with a crucial equalizer.
Luckassen connected with his leg from close range following a dangerous free kick delivered into the penalty area, bringing the scoreline to 1-1.
In the 83rd minute, veteran midfielder Luka Modric delivered an excellent corner into the penalty area, where Nikola Vlasic rose highest to power a header beyond Asare to restore Croatia’s lead till the end of the match.
Despite the defeat, the Black Stars’ earlier results—a 1-0 victory over Panama and a goalless draw against England, earning 4 points—proved enough to secure qualification for the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams.
Croatia, on the other hand, came second with 6 points after three matches in Group L. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
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