Kickoffghana.com writer Daraja Kapoor rates the performance of Black Stars players in their 3-2 win over South Korea in the second 2022 World Cup Group H game on Monday.
Every player is marked out of 10.
Lawrence Ati-Zigi 8- yes he conceded two goals but the St. Gallen shot-stopper made a number of brilliant saves to deny South Korea and ensure Ghana go into the last round of group matches with their faith in their hands.
Tariq Lamptey 5- He was decent for the most part but struggled especially in the second half when Korea targeted his side of defense to overload. Guilty for losing the ball cheaply in the build up to Korea’s first goal.
Daniel Amartey 6- The Leicester man had a decent game but will be disappointed with his positioning in a couple of plays.
Mohammed Salisu 7- Once again, he was Ghana’s best defender. Scored the first goal and although he was culpable for Korea’s first goal, the Southampton ace made a number of timely interception to keep
Gideon Mensah 7- Solid display. Came in as one of the three changes Otto Addo made to the side and delivered. He defended well and joined the attack whenever it was needed.
Abdul Samed Salis 7- Another great performance that might go under the radar. Kudus’ will rightfully get all the headlines but Salis is an unsung hero.
Thomas Partey 7- The Arsenal midfielder had a much better outing against the Asian country. He controlled the tempo of the match for large spells and showed glimpses of his best form.
Mohammed Kudus 9- A brace worth its weight in gold. Man of the match and Ghana’s most important player at the moment. He becomes the first Black Star player to score two goals in a single World Cup game.
Jordan Ayew 7– Way to silence the critics! A lot of eye-brows were raised when Jordan was named in the starting line-up. But the Crystal Palace repaid Otto Addo’s faith with a stellar performance. Played a huge role in the goal scored by Salisu and provided a sublime assist to Kudus for Ghana’s second goal.
Andre Ayew 5- Competent display. The skipper did okay. His best works were done when the team was pressing.
Inaki Williams 4– Huffed and puffed and ultimately struggled to have any real impact. The Athletic Bilbao star is clearly still finding his feet with the national team. Looked lost at times and cut a frustrated figure. Surely, there are better days ahead.
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Kamaldeen Sulemana 6- Impressive cameo. Looked sharp and added energy to the team
Daniel-Kofi Kyere 5- Brought on at a difficult moment and played his part as Ghana held on to edge the thrilling encounter.
Denis Odoi 5- ‘The professor’ fulfilled a childhood dream by making his World Cup debut. Had a decent substitute appearance.
Alexander Djiku 6- Brought on late when Ghana needed to defend their lead. He helped hold the fort at the back to seal the crucial victory.
Baba Rahman 5- Came in as replacement for the injured Gideon Mensah and did not put a foot wrong.
