Ghana suffer 3-0 humiliating defeat in hands of West African neighbours Mali |

Ghana’s friendly game against Mali in Turkey lasted nothing for the Black Stars as Mohamed Magassouba’s side carry the day with emphatic 3-0 victory over Akonnor’s men.

Akonnor was in charge for first time as Black Stars coach after taking over from Akwesi Apppiah December 2019. However, Akonnor was handed a defeat in his Black Stars official debut game.

Ghana handed three of their seven debutants start against the Eagles as Tariqe Fosu played at right-back whiles Alexander Djiku and Eugene Ansah were deployed in midfield and striking positions respectively.

Mali boss Magassouba knew very well of Ghana’s danger and deployed Lens midfielder Cheick Doucouré and Lassana Coulibaly of Angers in front of his back four while Kévin Zohi, Amadou Haidara and El Bilal Toure played three men behind Kalifa Coulibaly in a 4-2-3-1 system.

Two quick goals from either side of the half and a late curler from the passionate Eagles handed Black Stars a 3-0 loss in Emirhan Sport Center last Friday night.

Mali captain Hamari Troare was played through on goal from the right flank by Doucouré before the right-back finished the ball nicely three minutes after start despite consistently having a challenge from Gideon Mensah.

Troare turned the provider of Mali’s second goal, sending in a stunning cross into the six yard box for youngster Bilal Toure to head home. Amadou Haidara completed the mauling with fifteen minutes left.

Ghana play Qatar on Monday but face a major injury concern ahead of the clash as defender Nicholas Opoku limped off in the second half.

The Amiens centre-back was replaced by Celta Vigo defender Joseph Aidoo after receiving a harsh challenge from his opponent.

The GFA is expected to communicate the extent of the injury soon. But it looks like a serious injury. He could miss Black Stars next friendly game against Qatar on Monday.

Watch highlights of Ghana 0-3 Mali friendly