A late Kevin Prince Boateng goal confirmed Ghana's place in the 2014 World Cup despite losing 2-1 to a much improved Egypt side but winning 7-3  on aggregate.

The Egyptians had a 6-1 deficit to over turn from the first leg. They threw in everything in a desperate search for a miracle in the second leg but a 2-1 victory proved only to be a consolation for Bob Bradley side.

Amr Zakr shot the Pharaohs into the lead just after 25 minutes, raising the hopes of the North African side. The former Zamalek striker tapped in from close range after Fatau Dauda failed to get his hand to a sublime cross on the right.

The Egyptians took control over the game almost rendering Ghana's midfield duo of Essien and Muntari redundant for most part of the first half.

Daniel Opare also had a tough time curtailing the surging runs on the  right by Salleh. It was a spirited performance by the Pharaohs but an even solid performance in goal by Fatau Dauda kept Ghana's World Cup hopes alike.

The Pharaohs started the second half the same way they ended the first, piling all the pressure on the Ghana side. Just seconds after setting the half underway the Pharaohs won a corner kick which was well defended.

Ghana's skipper Asamoah Gyan who had been quiet, attempted to get back into the game but his shot from his weaker left foot was too frail to make any impact.

But it was the Egyptians who will press forward for more goals. Time was not their friend. Aboutrieka tried a cheek half volley in the Ghana's vital area but the ball whisked just wide.

The physical nature of the game had a toll on the Stars with Ghana's first casualty- Dede Ayew limping out for Wakasu.

Muntari nearly got the equaliser for the Stars but his free-kick inched just wide. The Black Stars introduced Kevin Prince Boateng who was making a return after almost two years out of international duty.

But it was the Pharaohs who got their second on the night in the 82nd minute and it was Mohammed Gedo who latched onto a perfect pass from in-field and drove it low and hard for Egypt's second.

Ghana responded positively with Gyan setting up Kevin for a crucial tap in and an important goal for the Stars.

2-1 it ended in favour of the Pharaohs but it is the Stars who will be going to Brazil in June next year.

 

 

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