by Dom Agbakpe
Milovan Rajevac made a fine start to his second stint in charge of Ghana after two goals from – Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey and captain Dede Ayew handed the Black Stars a 3-1 home win over Zimbabwe in the Qatar 2022 Fifa World Cup Qualifiers on Saturday.
The 67-year-old serb replaced CK Akunnor a fortnight ago following a poor start to the qualifiers.
Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey returned to the start list after both missed the Ethiopia and South Africa games last month due to injury.
Swindon Town’s Jojo Wolloott and Steadfast FC wonderboy Issahaku Abdul were handed their debut.
The game got off to a blazing start but it was Ghana who fetched the opener with a lovey finish by Mohammed Kudus on minute 5 – Second goal he’s scored at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium. First was against South Africa in the 2021 Afcon qualifiers in November 2019.
The Warriors of Zimbabwe enjoyed some possession but couldn’t make the best use it –
On 18th minute, Mohammed Kudus had another opportunity to make it two for the Black Stars but his effort was stopped by the goalie in post Zimbabwe.
Mohammed Kudus received the first booking of the game for time wasting. Kamaldeen Suleiman had the ball into the nylon net but it was ruled out for offside.
Both teams went to recess with Ghana being top and narrow lead.
Four minutes into the second half, the visitors were awarded a penalty after Alexander Djiku fouled Knox Mutizwa in the box. The Strasburg FC defender was booked afterwards. Skipper Knowledge Musona converted the penalty to level matters for his side.
There were chances far and near. In the 66th minute, Thomas Partey restored Ghana’s lead with a great individual effort inside the box.
Late on in the game, Dede Ayew connected Baba Rahmah’s cross to make it 3-1 and sealed victory for the Black Stars. The Warriors pushed forward in search for another goal but Ghana’s defence stood firm as Gabonese referee Pierre Atcho blew his whistle to end proceedings.
The result still keep Ghana second in Group G with 6 points from three games. Earlier today, South Africa defeated Ethiopia 3-1 at the Bahir Dar Stadium in the other Group game to stay atop with 7 points.
The pair will romance each other again on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at the Harare National Sports Stadium with kick-off at 2Pm.
