Ghana’s Black Sharks defeated Ivory Coast in the first leg of the 2024 Beach Soccer qualifier over the weekend.

Ghana set the tone for a thrilling second leg after claiming a 5-3 victory at home against their West African counterparts.

The game, which was played at the Keta Emancipation Beach Arena, saw spectators thrilled to an exciting end-to-end action.

Alfred Kwame Torsu got the opener for Ghana on the 6th-minute mark before Wise Nyamadi demonstrated exceptional skills in front of goal to score a brace within five minutes.

The Ivorians however fought back and scored before the game went into the first break.

Despite a strong showing from the Sea Elephants, the Black Sharks maintained control throughout most of the second half but failed to capitalise on their quick transitions to extend their lead.

In the final minutes of the game, Ticor Kini scored twice to give Ghana a cruising lead but the Ivorians scored again after converting a 39th-minute penalty.

The opponents then managed to reduce the goal deficit after Hans DjedDjed’s 43rd-minute goal.

“We have to stay focused and disciplined," emphasized Head Coach Daniel Neequaye Kotey. “The job isn't done yet. We need to replicate our performance next weekend and stay focused as a team."

With a two-goal advantage heading into the second leg, the Black Sharks have positioned themselves favourably, yet they remain aware of the challenges ahead.

The second leg tie which will be played on Saturday, July 27 in Abidjan promises to be a showdown, with both teams vying for a spot in the 2024 Beach Soccer AFCON which will be staged in Egypt.