AFCON 2015: André Ayew Urges Caution After Ghana’s Last-Gasp Win Over Algeria
Ghana forward André Ayew has welcomed his side’s crucial 1-0 victory over Algeria in Group C of the Africa Cup of Nations but insists the job is far from done as the Black Stars prepare for a decisive final group match against South Africa.
Captain Asamoah Gyan scored deep into stoppage time to secure a dramatic win in Mongomo, keeping Ghana’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive after an opening-day defeat to Senegal.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Ayew revealed that several key players — including himself — had battled illness in the build-up to the game.
“You know, four or five players weren’t 100% fit before this match,” Ayew told reporters, including Africa Top Sports’ special correspondent Steven Lavon. “Gyan, me, Boye — we were all sick, but we gritted our teeth for the country. We’re very happy tonight.”
Ayew reflected on Ghana’s misfortune in their opening match and praised the team’s resilience in bouncing back.
“Against Senegal, we conceded in the last minute and it hurt. Today, we were the ones to score late. It’s a beautiful feeling. But we’re not going to jump for joy yet — there’s still one decisive match to play.”
Ghana now sit level on points with Algeria heading into the final round of fixtures, with everything to play for in what has been dubbed the “Group of Death.”
The Black Stars face South Africa on 27 January in a match that will determine whether they continue their AFCON journey.
