The Black Stars of Ghana were held goalless by a plucky and determined Sudanese side in Group I of the ongoing 2012 Nations Cup qualifier. It was a game the Stars were heavily tipped to win, but failed to impress. And the 80th minute red card to Stars striker, Asamoah Gyan after a needless attack on a Sudanese player typified the disappointing performance of a team much was expected of. The Desert Hawks were not spectacular but efficient. They defended well, and with a superior work ethic neutralized a Stars’ attack led by Asamoah Gyan. Jordan Ayew was handed a debut starting role and looked impressive in the opening minutes of the game with some rampaging runs on the right but that was short-lived. It was a typical midfield action with chances few and far-in-between. On two occasions, Kwodwo Asamoah and Dede Ayew were brought down at the edge of the Sudanese goal area but twice Gyan converted and missed. In the 40th minute Kwodwo again made a superb run from the right and set up Gyan whose strike inched just wide. It was the only glaring opportunity thus far. Minutes before recess, the Sudanse attacker nearly caught Kingson napping after his speculative strike from 35 yards, but the Blackpool keeper proved equal to the task. The Sudanese had their confidence already soaring and on their return from recess nearly punished the Stars defence, after Isaac Vorsah failed to make a clearance. The Sudanse attacker hit it hard and low but missed the post by a whisker.