AFCON 2027 QUALIFIER: GHANA vs GAMBIA
Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations suffered a major setback as The Gambia recovered from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The Black Stars appeared to be in control after taking a two-goal lead in the first half, but The Gambia scored twice before the interval before completing a remarkable comeback after the break.
Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz made several changes to the team that had lost to Ivory Coast, with Benjamin Asare replacing Lawrence Ati-Zigi in goal.
Brandon Thomas-Asante led the attack, while Afena-Gyan was included in the starting line-up.
The hosts controlled possession during the opening stages, although they found it difficult to turn their dominance into clear chances.
Ghana were awarded a penalty in the 27th minute and Ernest Nuamah made no mistake from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to put the Black Stars ahead.
Afena-Gyan then extended the advantage six minutes later with an expertly taken free-kick, leaving Ghana 2-0 up and seemingly in command.
The Gambia responded immediately, with Mohamed Badamosi converting a penalty to halve the deficit.
Omar Colley equalised five minutes later, completing a rapid turnaround before half-time and silencing the home crowd at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Ghana began the second half strongly and looked the more threatening side as they pushed for a third goal. The match remained open, with both teams continuing to attack.
But The Gambia moved in front when Ebrima Colley took advantage of an expensive mistake by Ghana captain Gideon Mensah to make it 3-2.
The Black Stars pressed for an equaliser, but The Gambia secured a famous victory in stoppage time when Colley scored again to complete his brace.
The 4-2 defeat was a humiliating result for Ghana on home soil and leaves their qualification hopes hanging in the balance, while The Gambia celebrated a memorable win in Accra.
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