There was plenty of action as both teams got stuck into the tackles and there were enough chances for goals on both ends to keep the neutrals excited.

But Ghana seemed more likely to score, with Yahaya Mohammed particularly impressive while goalkeeper Stephan Adams also impressed.

Ghana were the first to threaten in the seventh minute when Mpong’s header went well wide and six minutes later DRC’s Mubele skinned his marker but sent his powerful effort from inside the area way over.

In the 27th minute Ghana went very close through Anobaah when he danced his way past a few DRC defenders before directing his effort onto the post from an acute angle.

Two minutes before the half time break Ghana had another chance when the ball fell nicely for Adusei, but he could not make it count for the Black Stars.

Kwabina Adusei opened the scoring for Ghana from the penalty spot after 68 minutes. The spot kick was awarded after DRC’s Kimwika handled the ball in the area.

In the 75th minute Ghana had another chance as Bansey sent his headed attempt wide of goal before Kasusula shot over the crossbar.

In the 84th minute the impressive Yahaya Mohammed should have made it two for Ghana when he was right in front of the keeper and missed.

DRC had a penalty appeal denied in the dying moments of referee’s optional time, which lasted for as many as six minutes.

Ghana (0) 1 (Adusei 68pen)
DR Congo 0

TEAMS

Ghana: Adams; Adusei (Azumah 70’), Ainooson, Sulley, Tijani; Akuffo (Owusu 82’), Mpong (Attorbah 53’), Opoku; Mohammed, Anobaah, Bansey

DRC: Kidiaba; Litombe, Kasusula, Muselenge, Kimwaki; Nsimbi, Ndombe (Mukanisa 85’), Basisila (Emomo 72’), Mundele; Mabidi, Mavuanga (Nzinga 63’)