Asamoah Gyan Strikes Late to Revive Ghana’s AFCON Hopes
Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan scored a dramatic last-minute winner to hand the Black Stars a crucial 1-0 victory over Algeria in Group C of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, reigniting their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.
In a tense and tactical encounter in Mongomo, Ghana left it late to punish a cautious Algerian side that failed to convert dominance into chances. The result lifts Avram Grant’s men level on three points with the Fennecs, throwing the group wide open ahead of the South Africa vs Senegal fixture.
The match appeared to be heading for a goalless draw before Gyan — back in the side after recovering from malaria — latched onto a long ball in added time. Outsprinting Carl Medjani, the veteran striker coolly slotted the ball past Rais M’Bolhi to send Ghanaian fans into raptures.
It was a moment of brilliance in an otherwise cagey affair, with both sides showing defensive discipline but little attacking fluidity. Algeria enjoyed more possession, especially in the second half, but lacked the urgency and final pass needed to trouble Razak Brimah in the Ghanaian goal.
Ghana, knowing anything less than a win would put their qualification hopes in serious doubt, improved after the break and found inspiration in their returning captain. Gyan’s late strike — his first of the tournament — was a reminder of his poacher’s instinct and big-game temperament.
For Algeria and coach Christian Gourcuff, the result will feel like a missed opportunity. Despite controlling large parts of the match, the Fennecs failed to register meaningful chances and will now need a result in their final group game to guarantee progression.
Ghana, meanwhile, live to fight another day — with belief, momentum, and their captain firing once more.
