Germany clinched a 2-1 victory against Ghana in an international friendly match held at the MHP Arena in Stuttgart on Monday. The Black Stars displayed moments of quality but ultimately succumbed to a resilient German side. Otto Addo made two strategic changes to his starting lineup for the encounter. Benjamin Asare, the Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, was given the nod, replacing Lawrence Ati-Zigi. In defense, OGC Nice's Kojo Oppong Peprah stepped in for Abdul Fatawu Issahaku. Peprah formed part of a three-man defense alongside Alexander Djiku and Jonas Adjetey, with Caleb Yirenkyi and Derrick Kohn operating as wingbacks. The midfield featured Thomas Partey and Kwasi Sibo, while Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, and Prince Kwabena Adu led the attack.
The match saw Germany dominating possession early on and saw a goal by Florian Wirtz ruled out for offside. The deadlock was broken just before halftime when Kai Havertz converted a penalty in the 45th minute. The decision followed a VAR review, which confirmed a handball by defender Jonas Adjetey in the 44th minute.
Ghana introduced Elisah Owusu for Kwasi Sibo after the break, a change that visibly enhanced the stability of the midfield. The substitution proved impactful as Derrick Kohn provided a crucial assist for Abdul Fatawu Issahaku to net the equalizer shortly after coming on for Prince Kwabena Adu. This goal reinvigorated Ghana's attacking efforts in the closing stages. However, Germany managed to secure their winning goal in the 88th minute through Deniz Undav. Further substitutions for Ghana saw Kojo Oppong Peprah replaced by Derrick Luckassen, with Kamal Deen Sulemana and Christopher Bonsu Baah also entering the fray for Caleb Yirenkyi and Derrick Kohn.
Despite the defeat, the Black Stars' performance offered valuable insights into Coach Addo's tactical adjustments and showcased the potential of several new faces within the squad.
GFA COMMUNICATIONS