Ghana warmed up for the 2022 World Cup with a 2-0 win over Switzerland in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Semenyo scored their first ever goal for the Black Stars to ensure Otto Addo’s side went into the global showpiece on a high.
The European country dominated the opening exchanges as Ghana slowly warmed their way into the rhythm of the game.
The first half was largely characterized by half chances with the goalkeepers not having too much to do.
The Black Stars had a penalty appeal turned down in the 24th minute when Afriyie Barnieh was brought down in the box, but the referee waved play on.
Minutes later, Jordan Ayew sent a teasing corner in but Iñaki Williams header just went inches wide as the first half petered out into a 0-0 stalemate.
Switzerland started the second half brightly and came close to breaking the deadlock three minutes after the restart.
Noah Okafor received a pass on the edge of the box before curling a shot which flew a whisker over the crossbar.
But it was Ghana who landed the first punch at the Zayed Sports Complex on the 70th minute mark.
Mohammed Salisu towered above everyone in the box to head home his first ever goal for the national team.
Three minutes later, substitutes Sulemana Kamaldeen and Antoine Semenyo combined to make it 2-0 for the four-time African Champions.
Semenyo was in the right place at the right time to get to the rebound inside the box and gleefully rifled the ball low into the middle of the net after a brilliant run by Kamaldeen.
The West African giants could have scored more but for some brilliant saved by Switzerland goalkeeper Sommer.
The international friendly wraps up Ghana’s preparation ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The Black Stars who are in Group H will begin their campaign against Portugal on November 24.
— Ferdinand A Baah
