AFCON 2015: Ghana Defeat Equatorial Guinea to Set Up Final Clash with Ivory Coast
By BBC Sport Africa
Ghana has booked their place in the final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations after a commanding 3-0 victory over host nation Equatorial Guinea in a dramatic and chaotic semi-final in Malabo.
The Black Stars, four-time continental champions, produced a clinical display on Thursday night, overpowering the tournament’s surprise package with goals from Jordan Ayew, Mubarak Wakaso, and André Ayew. But the match was marred by crowd trouble that forced an unprecedented suspension in the 82nd minute.
Unruly Scenes in Malabo
With Ghana in firm control of the tie, the atmosphere inside the Estadio de Malabo took a dark turn. Frustrated home supporters began throwing bottles, cans, and other projectiles onto the pitch. As tensions escalated, police moved in to evacuate the stands and secure the players, who were escorted off the field for their safety.
Shortly after the evacuation, some fans stormed the pitch, prompting a complete suspension of play. The match eventually resumed after a lengthy delay, but the incident has drawn widespread condemnation and could result in disciplinary action against Equatorial Guinea by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Ghana’s Clinical Performance
Despite the off-field disturbances, Ghana’s performance was one of focus and professionalism. Jordan Ayew opened the scoring in the 41st minute with a composed penalty after Kwesi Appiah was brought down in the box. Just before the interval, Mubarak Wakaso doubled the lead with a well-worked counter-attack, leaving the home side stunned.
In the second half, the Black Stars continued to dominate, and André Ayew, who was instrumental throughout the campaign, added a third to seal the result. The Ayew brothers—Jordan and André—proved pivotal once again, as Ghana reached their first AFCON final since 2010.
A Historic Rematch Awaits
Sunday’s final in Bata will see Ghana take on Côte d’Ivoire in a repeat of the iconic 1992 final, which the Ivorians won 11-10 on penalties after a goalless draw. Both nations are seeking to end long trophy droughts and lift the prestigious continental title.
While Ghana celebrate a deserved win, all eyes will be on CAF’s response to the night’s disturbing scenes. The governing body is expected to review the security failings and crowd behaviour that overshadowed what should have been a showcase of African football.
Final: Ghana vs Côte d’Ivoire – Sunday, February 8, 2015, Bata Stadium.
