Ghana defender Tariq Lamptey makes first competitive start in 346 days

Tariq Lamptey made his first competitive start in 346 days as Queens Park Rangers secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Cardiff City at Loftus Road in the EFL Championship.

The Ghana international returned to the starting lineup after a lengthy rehabilitation from a severe ACL injury, marking a significant milestone in his comeback.

Lamptey had gradually been reintroduced to first-team action this season, making substitute appearances and accumulating 73 minutes before being handed his first start since his injury.

The right-back repaid that trust with an energetic display before being substituted after 72 minutes.

He completed 21 passes, won three of four tackles and made four clearances, while also forcing the Cardiff goalkeeper into a save with a shot on target.

Lamptey’s pace and attacking intent were evident throughout his time on the pitch as QPR took control of the contest.

Rumarn Burrell put the hosts ahead in the 36th minute before doubling their advantage eight minutes after the restart.

Lamptey was withdrawn in the 72nd minute, with Cardiff pulling one back through Perry Ng three minutes later.

QPR, however, held on to claim all three points and hand Lamptey a winning return to the starting XI.

The 25-year-old had previously shown encouraging signs of his recovery, creating three clear-cut chances and providing an assist during his most recent substitute appearance.

His latest outing represents another important step in his bid to regain full fitness and establish himself as a regular starter.