AFCON 2017: Mohammed Elneny believes Pharaohs will qualify for quarter final

Egypt, the 7 time AFCON champion didn’t manage to score a goal in their first Group game. The game was played against the Eagles of Mali.

Still, the team has a better chance of qualifying to the quarter finals of the 2017 AFCON.

Their performance in the last game dropped their two point and made them stand third in the group. Mohamed Naser Elsayed, the Egyptian footballer says, “We played a good game against a tough opponent. We were really surprised with how good they are in terms of defensive organization. They knew how to stop our key players.’’

The player further added that there are two matches remaining in the group and they have a good chance to qualify. Egypt will play against the Cranes of Uganda in the next group game on Saturday. Their upcoming performance will decide their status in the AFCON 2017.
source :http://www.ghanalive.tv/

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AFCON 2017: Ex- Ghana Captain Stephen Appiah hails ‘spirited’ Ugandan side

Stephen Appiah, the former Ghana captain has hailed and lauded the performance of the Ugandan Cranes against the Black Stars in their group opening match on Tuesday.

Despite of the fact that the Black Stars won by 1-0, the brilliant fight of the Cranes at the Port Gentil Stadium cannot be neglected.

Coach Micho’s side showed a quality performance in their first match. However, Andre Ayew’s superb spot kick proved to be sufficient to lead his team to three maximum points to start off their AFCON 2017 quest on a good note.

The former Ghana captain said, “I think Uganda were incredible on the day, they showed that they are a good side. I loved their spirit, they could have equalized if they had enough time. I think Uganda is a team everyone must watch in the competition.”

The Ugandan side is trying hard to win their upcoming match against Egypt on Saturday in order to sustain their hope to continue in the race for the Title.

Source http://www.ghanalive.tv/

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AFCON 2017: Black Stars return to training after nervy win over Uganda

The Ghana National football team got a nervy 1-0 win over Uganda on Tuesday.

The Black Stars AFCON squad and their coach Avram Grant has started to train for the upcoming match against Mali. The match will be played this Saturday.

24 hours after their first game the Black Stars were at the Sogara Stadium in Port Gentile in order to train for their next game. The adversity for the Ghanaian squad is that the left back Abdul Baba Rahman has got injured and is not continuing the training

session with the team.

The Black Stars are striving hard to end their 35-year drought of the title of the AFCON champions and in their AFCON campaign they will successively take on other teams of the Group D.

Source http://www.ghanalive.tv/

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AFCON 2017 : What Tunisia must do to Win against Algeria

Algeria were lucky to get a draw against the underdog Zimbabwe in their opening fixture of AFCON 2017. Algeria got the lead through Mahrez but it Zimbabwe struck two goals to get the lead over Algerians.

It was 81st minute when Mahrez scored his second goal of the night to salvage a draw for his nation. Tunisia on the other hand were on the receiving end of a 2-0 thrashing at the hands of Senegal. A win today is essential for Tunisia if they want to progress further in this cup of nations. If Tunisia want to win today there is one thing that Tunisia must do i.e. keep Riyad Mahrez at bay. If Tunisians are able to keep him quite during the whole 90 minutes, they are most likely to salvage something from the clash.

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I’m not a perfect girl – Selly Galley

Selorm Galley-Fiawoo whose nickname is Selly and also known as Selly Galley has shared beautiful photos of her on her Instagram and confessed that she’s not perfect.

The talented actress and TV host stated that she is not perfect as she has some weaknesses and imperfections even she can be clumsy but despite all these imperfections, she embraces herself.

Selly Galley says that nobody can be perfect but we can improve ourselves and that imperfections are beautiful.

See her photo below and also read what she wrote:

“I am not a perfect girl 
My hair doesn’t always stay in place , my nails are not always done , I can be quite clumsy at times but I embrace it all  . We will never be perfect but we can be better . Imperfections are beautiful 

Source: ghanalive.tv

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AFCON 2017: Algeria V Tunisia preview

The battle between the North African team will kick-start on 19th January, when Algeria will take on Tunisia in their second group game of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, Algeria escaped from Zimbabwe attack as they drew their first game. The Desert warrior went ahead in the 12th minute of the game, but conceded 4 minutes later.

Zimbabwe added another one on the half hour mark to put the Algerians on back put for about 52 minutes, before Riyad Mahrez scored his 2nd goal of the night to level things and share one point each.

Meanwhile, Tunisia suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Terenga lion of Senegal. This is their first ever defeat against West Africa side in over 40 years.

Both teams have met at the 2013 edition of AFCON hosted by South Africa, which was narrowly won by the Tunisian side with a lone goal to win the tie against their North Africa counterpart after 38 years.

Moreover, in the last 10 competitive games overall, Algeria have lost just once, compared to Tunisia 2 defeats.

Check out the full squad of both teams below:

ALGERIA Squad:

GOALKEEPERS – Raïs Ouhab M’bolhi (Antalyaspor -Turkey), Malik Asselah (JS Kabylie), Chemseddine Rahmani (MO Béjaïa)

DEFENDERS – Mokhtar Belkhiter (Club Africain -Tunisia), Mohamed Rabie Meftah (USM Alger), Aïssa Mandi (Real Bétis – Spain), Hicham Belkaroui (Espérance de Tunis -Tunisia), Liassine Cadamuro (Servette Genève -Switzerland), Mohamed Benyahia (USM Alger), Ramy Bensebaïni (Stade Rennais -France), Faouzi Ghoulam (SSC Napoli – Italy), Djamel Eddine Mesbah (FC Crotone -Italy)

MIDFIELDERS – Adlène Guedioura (Watford FC – England), Saphir Taïder (Bologna FC -Italy), Nabil Bentaleb (Schalke 04 – Germany), Mehdi Abeid (Dijon FCO -France), Yassine Brahimi (FC Porto -Portugal), Rachid Ghezzal (Olympique Lyonnais -France)

ATTACKERS – Islam Slimani (Leicester City FC – England), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City FC – England), Hillal El Arabi Soudani (Dinamo Zagreb -Croatia), Baghdad Bounedjah (Al Sadd -Qatar), Sofiane Hanni (RSC Anderlecht – Belgium)

TUNISIA Squad:

GOALKEEPERS – Aymen Mathlouthi (Etoile du Sahel), Moez Ben Cherifia (Esperance), Rami Jridi (CS Sfaxien)

DEFENDERS – Ali Maaloul (Al Ahly, Egypt) Aymen Abdennour (Valencia, Spain), Siyam Ben Youssef (Caen, France), Hamza Mathlouthi (CS Sfaxien), Mohamed Ali Yacoubi (Rizespor, Turkey), Chamseddine Dhaouadi (Esperance), Slimane Kchok (CA Bizertin), Zied Boughattas, Hamdi Nagguez and Zied Boughatass (Etoile du Sahel)

MIDFIELDERS – Ferjani Sassi (Esperance), Larry Azouni (Nîmes, France), Naim Sliti (Lille, France), Wahbi Khazri (Sunderland, England), Mohamed Amine Ben Amor and Hamza Lahmar (Etoile), Ahmed Khalil (Club Africain), Youssef Msakni (Lekhwiya, Qatar)

FORWARDS – Ahmed Akaïchi (Ittihad, Saudi Arabia), Taha Yassine Khenissi (Esperance), Saber Khelifa (Club Africain)

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AFCON 2017: Senegal V Zimbabwe preview

One of the greatest performance by Zimbabwe against Algeria have put them in a good position, when they will take on Senegal, who have already beaten Tunisia 2-0 in their first game.

Senegal 2-0 win over Tunisia is their first win over Tunisia after a long 40 years of wait; a record that will definitely boosted the morale of the players in the later part of the competition.

Zimbabwe almost pulled the first upset of the tournament against Algeria, when they are 2-1 ahead until they conceded a goal in the 82nd minute of the game to share a point each.

Both teams have met at the 2006 Africa cup of nations in Angola, where the terenga lions enjoyed a 2-0 victory over the warriors of Zimbabwe.

However, this is Zimbabwe 2nd Africa Cup of Nations appearance in the competition.

Check out the full squad of both team below:

SENEGAL Squad:

Goalkeepers: Khadim N’Diaye (Horoya AC, Guinea), Abdoulaye Diallo (Çaykur Rizespor, Turkey), Pape Seydou N’Diaye (ASC Niarry Tally).

Defenders: Lamine Gassama (Alanyaspor, Turkey), Cheikh M’Bengue (Saint-Etienne, France), Kara Mbodj (Anderlecht, Belgium), Zargo Toure (Lorient, France), Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli, Italy), Saliou Ciss (Valenciennes, France)

Midfielders: Idrissa Gana Gueye (Everton, England), Cheikhou Kouyate (West Ham, England), Cheikh N’Doye (Angers, France), Papakouli Diop (Espanyol, Spain), Henri Saivet (Saint Etienne, France), Papa Alioune Ndiaye (Osmanlıspor, Turkey), Mohamed Diame (Newcastle, England)

Forwards: Sadio Mane (Liverpool England), Keita Balde Diao (Lazio, Italy), Moussa Konate (FC Sion, Switzerland), Famara Diedhiou (Angers, France), Mame Biram Diouf (Stoke, England), Ismaila Sarr (Metz, France), Moussa Sow (Fenerbahce, Turkey)

ZIMBABWE Squad:

GOALKEEPERS – Donovan Bernard (How Mine), Tatenda Mkuruva (Dynamos), Takabva Mawaya (Hwange)

DEFENDERS – Costa Nhamoinesu (Sparta Prague, Czech Rep.), Bruce Kangwa (Azam FC, Tanzania), Elisha Muroiwa (Dynamos), Hardlife Zvirekwi (Caps United), Oscar Machapa (AS Vita Club, DR Congo), Onismor Bhasera (SuperSport United, South Africa), Lawrence Mlanga (Chicken Inn), Teenage Hadebe (Chicken Inn)

MIDFIELDERS – Khama Billiat (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Danny Phiri (Golden Arrows, South Africa), Williard Katsande (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Kudawashe Mahachi (Golden Arrows, Afrique du Sud), Marvelous Nakamba (Vitesse Arnhem, Holland)

ATTACKERS – Cuthbert Malajila (Bidvest Wits, South Africa), Evans Rusike (Maritzburg, South Africa), Tinotenda Kaderwere (Djuargardens, Sweden), Knowledge Musona (Oostende, Belgium), Nyasha Mushekwi (Dalian Yifang, China), Mathew Rusike (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia), Tendai Ndoro (Orlando Pirates, South Africa)

Source http://www.ghanalive.tv/

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Be your best cheer leader, Afia Schwarzenegger to fans

The award-winning comedienne Valentina Nana Agyeiwaa, also known as Afia Schwarzenegger in the showbiz circle knows how to motivate her fans through dictating them.

The controversial actress and broadcaster recently shared a post on her social media account and encouraged her fans to love their selves.

She said that if someone doesn’t appreciate or love you then it wouldn’t be your problem, let them do what they want to. She motivated her fans to stay happy and lead their selves with cheers.

Read what she wrote:

“You have enough people in life against you..kindly don’t be against yourself…what others think of you is NONE of your business..
Be your best cheer leader…
A victorious life begins in your mind.
#Queenofcomedygh 
#Onyamekala 
#mycaseisdifferent“

You have enough people in life against you..kindly don't be against yourself...what others think of you is NONE of your business.. Be your best cheer leader... A victorious life begins in your mind. #Queenofcomedygh👑#Onyamekala #mycaseisdifferent

Source : http://www.ghanalive.tv/

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AFCON 2017 : Gabon to Depend on Aubameyang

Gabon will face Burkina Faso today at 4:00 GMT. Once again Gabon will solely depend on their mega star, Aubameyang. The Dortmund striker inspired Gabon against Guinea but could not mark the start that he would have hoped for his team. 

Gabon ran into the lead courtesy of a goal from Gabon’s skipper but unfortunately gifted the equalizer to Guinea deep into injury time. Aubameyang will need to step up once again for his nation if they want to salvage something from this fixture as a win today is essential for their progress further into the competition.

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AFCON 2017 : What Guinea must do to Win

Guinea go up against Senegal today in the second group stage fixture. Currently all four teams of their group are on level terms as both games ended as 1-1 draw.

A win today will boost the chances of progress to the next round. Gabon will face Burkina Faso today before Guinea face Senegal and if either of Gabon or Burkina Faso win the match, it will put huge pressure on other two teams to keep up the pace with leaders of the group. Anyways, If Guinea are to salvage anything from this fixture, the will need to keep the Senegalese attacker, Sadio Mane at bay. Mane is well and truly capable of doing the damage to the opposition with his quick feet and pace with the ball. He will be a continues thorn in Guinea’s throat but if Guinea can deal with him, they are likely to come away with something from the clash.  
www.ghaanlive.tv/afcon/

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Five takeaways from Ghana’s 1-0 win over Uganda

Ghana began their campaign at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday with a 1-0 win over Uganda. 

The win was courtesy a first-half penalty by Andre Dede Ayew. TV3‘s Yaw Ofosu Larbi takes an analysing look at what transpired at the Stade de Port-Gentil. 

Uganda’s strength lies in teamwork Crowned Africa’s National team of the year prior to the tournament, there was no doubt that the match against the Black Stars was going to be a difficult one. All through the game, there was just one running theme: Teamwork is key! 

From organisation to team spirit, the Cranes ticked all the boxes of a team brimming with confidence and ready to fight till the end. In the first half, it all didn’t go well. The Black Stars dominated as they should, running free from defenders Isinde and Wasswa but still couldn’t find a way past goalkeeper Denis Onyango who was just voted best African based player. The second half though, had a different story. 

The Ugandans came on as an improved side hurting the Black Stars with their physicality. Farouk Miya the brightest of spots for the Cranes and the 19-year-old Shaban were just too tough to handle in the area. But in all, it was a disappointing return for Uganda, who played at their first Nations Cup since 1978 when they lost in the final to then-hosts Ghana. 

The Cranes created few opportunities of note and struggled against the Black Stars, who were happy to defend their lead but there is no doubt that the Cranes can come back with a solid performance against Egypt to aid their qualification hopes. It can only get better for Micho and his side. 

Atsu, still the main man It has become an increasingly similar story for Ghana at Afcon. When Christian Atsu has a good game, we win. It told in 2013 and in 2015 when he won the Most Valuable Player award albeit losing to Ivory Coast in the final. Atsu was menacing on the right hand side of attack for the Black Stars. The man with 49 caps and 10 goals has been Ghana’s main man at Afcon in recent editions. 

The 25-year-old’s club career has never taken off as he would have expected- signing for Chelsea at an early age, being shoved around clubs on loan spells and has just found solace at Rafa Benitez’ Newcastle- but his performances for his country have never changed. Atsu for club is almost like Clark Kent while for Ghana is the superman. If there was an audition of footballers, Atsu would only reel tapes from his international games to get a slot. 

His performance against Uganda on Tuesday was nothing short of spectacular- earning him the man of the match award. His shot that was saved by Onyango was one of best chances and I spared a thought for defender Isaac Isinde who he toyed around all through the game. Every team needs good ethos, understanding and a better organization. The Black Stars have all of that, but will still need Atsu at his utmost best to earn results. 

PARTEY could become heir to Essien’s throne For the skeptics, Grant had gotten it wrong when he decided to include Partey in his team. The Athletico Madrid midfielder played a big role in maintaining Ghana’s 1-0 lead. The 24 year old who has already made five caps for the Black Stars has been touted as one of the best midfielders of his generation and probably the long term heir to Essien’s throne in midfield. 

His simple passes, bursting runs and persistence to get the ball when it is with an opponent typifies his performance yesterday and how easily he is seeping into the Essien role for the team- although in defensive midfield. 

Most of his passes yesterday were suspect but in his defense, it is his first major tournament and thus there could be a few jittery moments. But he was very solid. Solid enough to keep Afriyie Acquah and Agyemang Badu out of the team. Partey is not there yet but the signs show he could be an integral figure for the Stars. 

Black Stars goal drought After the game last night, I saw a tweet that said the Black Stars love to score just one goal and it made me think. In the last five matches before the game against Uganda, Ghana had score only TWO GOALS against South Africa and Rwanda. It was not different yesterday. 

Attack look sharp but they just couldn’t get the finish to provide extra celebration. That brings us back to the question of why Grant axed Majeed Waris and Rapheal Dwamena out of his side when clearly they had scored so many goals for their clubs this season. 

Waris answered his snub with a brace last weekend for Lorient to remind Mr. Grant of what he could be missing at the tournament. I’m banishing any thoughts that the strikers we have are not capable. I would like to think and maybe I could be accused of naivety that the ones we have now are only on rough patch. They might need something to spur them on. 

The goals will come yes, but it should be soon enough because that game against Mali will be a proper litmus test. Change of defensive partnership, no problem John Boye and Daniel Amartey were superb in defense for the Black Stars. The centre back pairing of the team worked to perfection and according to plan. Jonathan Mensah’s absence was not felt so much. John Boye physical presence and aerial ability makes up for what he lacks in pace and reading the game. It was therefore a masterstroke for Grant to have paired him with Amartey whose experience in the English Premier came to bare again. 

Always keen to initiate an attack when he gets the ball. Ochaya’s crosses were almost always very deadly but Boye did enough to ward off Miya and Shaban who were looking to pounce and cause mayhem. The confidence amongst the two and the fact that Jonathan Mensah is waiting in the reins to displace anyone who doesn’t perform will ginger them to give out 110%.

Source http://www.ghanaweb.com/

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Ghana hero Andre Ayew hails team spirit in Uganda win, urges focus ahead of Mali showdown

Andre Ayew is delighted with Ghana's team spirit after their 1-0 win Uganda, urging focus ahead of the next fixture against Mali in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.

The West Ham United star scored the decisive goal for the Black Stars through the spot kick in Port-Gentil.

Several questions marks have been raised about the quality of the team to go all the way after a sloppy second half display.

But the Ghana assistant captain has hailed the side's team spirit.

The Black Stars will tackle Mali in their next group D game on Saturday.

source  http://ghanasoccernet.com/

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AFCON 2017 Round 1: The story so far

We have now had the opportunity to see the opening fixtures of all 16 teams competing for the title of African Champion. So what have we learnt from the opening exchanges? ‘Small minded’ resilience One observation the opening round has yielded is this: Just like the Euro 2016 tournament the so called small teams will not just roll over for the big boys even if they have no realistic chances of winning the title. Cote D’ivoire’s wan display against Togo served to highlight the triumph of collective resilience over names.

 The defending Champions lined up with in-form Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha and their other star names from the top European leagues. They however found the Togolese a hard nut to crack. The game evoked shades of Christiano Ronaldo infamously dismissing Iceland’s approach to their drawn game at the Euros as “small minded”. If staying compact and tactically disciplined against superior opposition is “small minded” then expect to see a lot more at Gabon 2017. Guinea Bissau, in their Portugal-like strips and with their legion of foreign based journeymen sounded this trend loudly enough on the opening day when the spoilt the party for the hosts, Gabon. Zimbabwe are in bullish mood after holding hot favourites Algeria, or perhaps more appropriately after being held by Algeria! 

The warriors outclassed and out-thought Le Fennecs for 82 minutes until Riyadh Mahrez’s special rescue mission salvaged a point for the North Africans. Can Senegal finally make their star power count? In an interview with the BBC, former Senegal International emphasised how members of the 2002 team that reached the quarter finals of the World cup were inspiring the current generation to win the Afcon 2017. Aliou Cisse who captained that side, which also reached the final of AFCON 2002, is the current coach. 

The former Birmingham City man has appointed Tony Silva as the goal keeper trainer while others make up the backroom staff. Perhaps this has helped the perennially talent-laden team find their mojo. Against Tunisia, the Teranga Lions were slick and efficient as they purred to a 2-0 victory. It was undoubtedly the result of the opening round. What remains to be seen is whether Senegal can build on that result and not choke like they have done in recent tournaments. North Africans glum show continues In the absence of Egypt from the last three African cups, the other North African countries have struggled to make an impact in the tournament. In 2012, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia made it to the finals with only Tunisia advancing to the last eight. They were eliminated by Ghana. A year later, none of Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria could advance out of their groups at the tournament in South Africa. In the last AFCON both representatives from the North advanced to the quarters. Algeria crushed out after a 3-1 loss to eventual Champions CIV. Tunisia on the other hand were seconds away from a semi-final berth when a controversial penalty awarded by the Mauritian referee Rajindraparsad Seechurn to the hosts changed the outcome of the match and enabled Equatorial Guinea reach the last four at their expense. With four representatives this time round, including the returning Pharaohs, more is expected of the North African contingent. An inauspicious start however means none of them won their opening matches. Will the poor run continue? Star players and upstarts Some star players have wasted no time getting off the mark for their teams. Borussia Dortmund star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang predictably got Gabon going in the opening match, Riyadh Mahrez’s brace secured a point for Algeria and Sadio Mane and Andre Ayew’s efforts from the spot set Senegal and Ghana on their way to victories over Tunisia and Uganda respectively. While other big names prepare to announce their presence at this year’s competition, a number of unheralded folks have caught the eye already. Zimbabwe’s Khama Billiat shone against Algeria and was unfortunate not to crown his effort with a goal. Cameroon have been deprived of many big names but were impressive against Burkina Faso, denied of victory by their own profligacy. Winger Christian Bassogog was a major driving force and will cause problem for defences with his pace and strength. Guinea Bissau spent more time defending than attacking against Gabon. But when they were in possession, Toni Silva showed immense guile and creativity. These are still early days yet. Group D is the de facto group of death Egypt may be back to the AFCON with their fearsome reputation, but winning the tournament will not be a given. The Egyptians, unbeaten in 19 straight matches at the AFCON and are tipped by many as strong candidates for the title. This is however not going to be plain sailing. For long portions of Egypt’s clash with Mali in Port Gentil, it was the Eagles who harried and dictated the pace of the match. But for goal keeper El-Shenawy’s heroics that eventually led to his substitution, the outcome could have been different. On evidence of Uganda’s brave showing against Ghana, Egypt are by no means assured of three points when they line up against the cranes on Saturday. With Ghana and Mali clashing in what should be a terrific encounter; Group D promises to serve up quite a treat. - See more at: http://citifmonline.com/2017/01/18/afcon-2017-round-1-the-story-so-far/#sthash.cjYWfrna.dpuf

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Stars shoot down The Cranes

Ghana’s Black Stars secured an important 1-0 win over The Cranes of Uganda yesterday without playing a very convincing game at the Stade de Port-Gentil in Gabon.

Andre Ayew’s 30th minute goal from a spot kick, after Asamoah Gyan had been tripped by his marker, Isaac Isinde, from behind, proved very important as the Ghanaians bagged maximum points in a match they wasted many scoring opportunities to provide them the needed cushion into the second half.

Winning against Uganda, a side that had been a thorn in the flesh of Ghana, was deeply satisfying for Coach Avram Grant who said after the match that it was better to win without being convincing than to play a good game and lose as happened at the 2015 Nations Cup when the Stars lost their opening game against Senegal.

For the Israeli trainer, the slim win was a relief, particularly as his side struggled to hold their own against a courageous and determined Ugandan side who were returning to Africa’s showpiece tournament for the first time since they lost the 1978 AFCON final to Ghana, but had held the Ghanaians to a scoreless draw in a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Tamale three months ago.

“I’m happy with the result and how we defended the lead. We dominated the first half and created scoring chances.

“In Senegal we played a good game but we lost. It’s only the first game and I know we can play better,” Grant said in a post-match interview, adding that the pitch did not allow for good ball control.

Uganda had never won an opening game in the Africa Nations Cup and yesterday they were given a fitting baptism by Ghana who won their 10th opening game in the history of the competition, repeating a familiar 1-0 scoreline recorded in their opening games in the 1992, 1994, 2006 and 2012 tournaments.

Uganda coach, Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic, took the loss in his stride and admitted his side faced a more formidable and experienced opponent.

“We wanted to get the result. We showed we could play against the big teams at this level. I’m happy with my players’ mental strength and physical fitness, but this level of competition does not allow for silly mistakes,” said the Serbian.

“Ghana is a strong side and since 2008 they have been among the last four. But we are looking forward to being at our best against Egypt and Mali.”

In fact, Ayew’s strike – his 13th international goal - ensured he scored in all four Nations Cup competitions he has represented Ghana so far. It was a welcome relief which calmed the nerves of the Stars who had stamped their dominance over the game but were wasteful in front of the Ugandan goalmouth.

Only two minutes earlier, the West Ham United midfielder blew away a God-send chance after being set up by Jordan, who run deep down the byline and sent a teasing cross but the offensive midfielder’s weak connection with the outside of his left foot went straight into the waiting hands of goalkeeper Denis Onyango.

It was a wasting spree by Grant’s side who seized control of the game by the 14th minute when Jordan wasted Ghana’s finest chance then, after running deep into the Ugandan box but attempted to shoot from a tight angle instead of releasing the ball to Andre or Gyan who were in better striking range.

Uganda adopted a patient build-up and occasionally attacked from the left where diminutive Harrison Afful was outmuscled and outpaced by his stronger opponents. But the East Africans often were met with a strong resistance by centre-backs Daniel Amartey and John Boye, with Spain-based Thomas Partey and Wakaso Mubarak forming a solid pair in midfield.

In the other match, Egypt and Mali settled for a goalless draw

Ghana: Razak Braimah, Harrison Afful, Baba Rahman/Frank Acheampong, John Boye, Daniel Amartey, Mubarak Wakaso, Thomas Partey, Christian Atsu, Asamoah Gyan/Afriyie Acquah, Jordan Ayew/Agyemang Badu, Andre Ayew

source http://www.graphic.com.gh/

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Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan hails Essien-like Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey

The chorus is growing by the day for midfielder Thomas Partey after he turned on a magic show on the opening day of Ghana's 2017 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

The Atletico Madrid enforcer charmed several Ghanaian fans with a brilliant display for the Black Stars as they secured a narrow 1-0 win over Uganda in Port-Gentil on Tuesday.

Captain Asamoah Gyan appeared out of superlatives when he spoke to Accra-based Happy FM on Wednesday.

“I was impressed with his output yesterday but not surprised because to play for one of the best teams in the world [Atletico Madrid], you need to possess something unique, which I believe he has,”he said

“He is a gifted footballer and I’m happy he plays for Ghana.

"For someone who doesn’t get enough minutes for his club and come to a big tournament like the AFCON, and put up such display, I think he’s on the right track. He will become a great player.”

Partey has come in for massive praise back in his native country amid conviction he could be the next big thing.

He is expected to be key for the four-time champions ahead of their meeting against Mali on Saturday.
source http://ghanasoccernet.com

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Uganda draw lessons from Ghana loss

On their first return to Afcon after 39 years, the Uganda Cranes did not get the welcome they dreamt of after Ghana edged them 1-0 in their opening Group D tie in Port Gentil on Tuesday.

Uganda found themselves on the back foot when central defender Isaac Isinde gave away a penalty that was converted by Andre Ayew to give Avram Grant’s side the lead after half an hour.

Cranes captain Geoffrey Massa told supersport.com that, “We have to go back to the drawing board and see that we have to win against Egypt. We would have won the game but this is football.”

Uganda looked blunt in front of goal in the first half with Christian Atsu having a go at left back Joseph Ochaya for crosses into the box while the Cranes failed to string consistent passes in midfield.

However, Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic introduced Moses Oloya for Michael Azira who brought an attacking edge to the team.

The introduction of youngster Muhammad Shaban and Geoffrey Sserunkuma clearly showed Micho’s intent to go on an all out attack in search of that equalizer and indeed some chances were created but did not count for much.

“We played Ghana in the last three games before the opener and we took five points. We conceded very easily and this is football. We only have to go back to the drawing board and correct our mistakes,” stated Massa.

“We need to play two or three strikers like in the second half. In the next game, we have to throw everything on the field of play. We started with one striker and we were defending deep.”

“In the second half, everything was possible, we could have scored but this is football. We only have to make sure we win the next game.”

“We have a lot of young players. None of them was at Afcon in 1978. After 39 years, coming here and losing a game 1-0, I think we do not have to be sad.”

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Denis Onyango had an incredible game most notably denying Atsu in a one-on-one situation in the 85th minute.

However, Massa decried the absence of midfielder Khalid Aucho and central defender Murushid Juuko who were suspended.

“It really affected us as well as Murushid Juuko because he is a very good defender. They will be back in the next game. We really missed them today.”

Uganda will face Egypt in their next game on January 21 at Stade de Port Gentil before taking on Mali on January 25 at Stade d’Oyem.

Source http://www.supersport.com

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Ghana Black Stars earn hard fought win over Uganda

The Black Stars of Ghana, picked up the three maximum points in their first game in Group D, after a hard fought lone goal victory over old foes the Cranes of Uganda.

 With history at the back of the minds of the two teams, Uganda the 1978 losing finalists to Ghana, were the more threatening side at the beginning of the game and made some incursions, which could have given them the lead.

It was however not good enough to give them the lead, as the Stars took over in the 10th minute dominated proceedings till the first half was over.

It was a fair outcome after 45 minutes, because Jordan Ayew, Asamoah and Christian Atsu could have put the game beyond the Ugandans even by the close of the first 30 minutes.

Gyan’s header was the clearest opportunity, but he headed feebly from Atsu’s cross, whilst Andre Ayew’s stylish curler was easy for Dennis Onyango to deal with in the 28th minute.

Atsu, could have made amends himself, but again shot into the hands of Onyango, but the Ghana captain manage to secure a penalty for his side in the 30th minute.

Gyan, raced on Isaac Inside, which made the defender lose the ball to Gyan and had no option than to pull him down in the vital area in the 30th minute for Bostwana referee Joshua Bondo to point to the spot kick.

Ayew, was on hand to convert without stress to hand Ghana the lead in the 31st minute, which was enough to end the half and the game eventually.  

But it was not without a fight from the Ugandans, as two late minutes efforts from of Faruku Miya missed target narrowly, as well as that of skipper Geofrey Massa in the first half.  

The Stars returned to the second half, with a different approach, which allowed them to play on the break. However it kept them on edge throughout the second half.

The Ugandans pushed pushed them to own half in search of the equalizer.

Ghana occasionally made attempts at breaking through, but Jordan Ayew who leads the attack seem to lack the bite to complete the task.

Coach Avram Grants efforts to protect the lone goal, pulled out Gyan for Agyemang Badu in the 71 minute obviously to increase the strength of the midfield and quell the threats of the Ugandans. 

The introduction of Afriyie Acquah for Jordan Ayew made the coach’s approach to the game much obvious. He was however compelled to pull out Baba Rahman for Frank Acheampong who got injured in the first half.

 Atsu could have made it two when he latched on a ball in defence, had only Onyango to beat but he saved it to deny Atsu the second goal for Ghana.

Line Up:

Ghana:  Razak Braimah, Harrison Affiul, Baba Rahman/Frank Acheampong, John Boye, Daniel Amartey, Thomas Partey, Mubarak Wakaso, Christian Atsu, Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew/Afriyie Acquah, Asamoah Gyan/Agyemang Badu  

Uganda: Denis Onyango, Ochaya Benson Joseph, Georfrey Kizito, Isaac Inside, Tony Maweje, Luwanga William, Geofrey Massa, Dennis Iguma, Hassan Wasswa, Faruku  Miya,  Michael Azira.       

Source: GNA

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AFCON 2017: DR Congo vs Morocco as it Happened

DR Congo have kicked off their AFCON 2017 campaign in the best fashion as they edged Morocco in a closely contested fixture.

DR Congo were tipped for an easy win but Morocco gave them a run for their life with what was a decent performance to say the least.

The match started brightly with both sides threatening to score but the match lost the spark as both sides tried to slow the tempo of the game and get the upper hand in the match.

First half ended as it started with both sides failing to score. The score line at the half time was 0-0.

Second half started in the best way and the game was back to its best but wasteful finishing from the strikers meant that none side could score the opener and had to wait until 55th minute when Cage was gifted a goal from the Moroccan goal keeper.

Morocco were handed a boost in their pursuit of equalizer when Lomalisa of DR Congo was sent off in the 81 minute.  But despite trying hard to get the equalizer, they were held back by a resilient DR Congo side. DR Congo won the match by 1-0.

M. Boussoufa has been selected as the Total Man of the Match! Well done!

Check out some exclusive footage from today’s clash;

http://www.ghanalive.tv/2017/01/16/afcon-2017-dr-congo-vs-morocco-happened/

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Jon Benjamin attends Asantehene Otumfuor Osei’s funeral

Jon Benjamin the ambassador of UK to Ghana, has also attended the funeral of Asantehemaa Nana Afia Kobi Serwa Ampem II, he expressed his feelings of grieve on the tragic loss to the Asantehene Otumfuor Osei Tutu II and the Asanteman Council

Talking to the media on the funeral he said the he feels much honored to be able to pay his respects to such a grand personality, he further said that Ghana and Britain share a great relationship. The late queen bid farewell to the world at the age of 111 in Nov 2016. The queen will be buried in Breman on Thursday. Mourners will be allowed to see one last glance of the queen at the Manhyia Palace.

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Top 10 most watched TV Series of all time

The television is the biggest source of entertainment as most of the people love to watch their favorite programs during free time and today, we will look at the top ten most watched TV Series of all time.

#10 – 24 (2001-2010 – original run)

#9 – Family Guy (1999-present)

#8 – Fringe (2008-2013)

#7 – The Wire (2002-2008)

#6 – Rules of Engagement (2007-2013)

#5 – Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

#4 – Burn Notice (2007-2013)

#3 – Person of Interest (2011-2016)

#2 – Game of Thrones (2011-present)

#1 – Seinfeld (1989-1998)

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