By James Robert Kayindi
It was pretty tense and tight evening as Group C bust its banks into action when the Black Stars of Ghana faced off with the Lions of Teranga from Senegal. Without team captain Asamoah Gyan, Muntari and Kevin Prince Boateng, Ghana looked vulnerable but being four time champions and 2010 runners up, they couldn’t be undermined on the day.
Without their backbone, the Black Stars managed to cruise through as they took an early lead in the 14th minute when Andre Ayew netted from the spot. New games plans after recess helped Senegal bring matters back to level through Mame Diouf in the 58th minute.
Ghana seemed happy to walk away with a point after 90minutes but Teranga Lion, Moussa Sow who came off the bench had others ideas as he snatched a late winner for the Senegalese in stoppage time making it 2-1 to seal down the introduction party of Group C.
In another Group C game, title favorites Algeria stormed back from a goal down to smash South Africa 3-1 on the night ending South Africa’s 12 match unbeaten.
After a barren first half, South Africa took the lead in the 58th minute when Thuso Phala slotted home. Bournemouth striker from the English league two side missed a great opportunity to extend South Africa’s lead when he fired at the crossbar from a penalty spot.
Pressure from the desert foxes in a bid to bring the game back to level saw Thulani Hlatshwayo hit the back of his own net before Faouzi Ghoulam and Islam Slimani added to seal Algeria’s score sheet.
Algeria now tops Group C on goal difference, Senegal in second spot, Ghana third and South Africa bottom.
Email Robert: Robert.k.circles@gmail.com