Essien stars as hosts Ghana advance to quarter-finals of African Nations
Michael Essien proved his class as he powered the home nation, Ghana, to the quarter-finals of the African Nations cup with a goal and an assist in the 2-0 win over Morocco. In the other game in Group A, Guinea's 1-1 draw with Namibia was enough to see them through to the last eight.
Chelsea midfielder Essien was afforded more freedom than he usually is given at club level, and oozed with confidence.
Portsmouth's Sulley Muntari clipped a free-kick over Morocco's wall in the 26th minute, and Essien drilled his finish past goalkeeper Nadir Lamyaghri
Essien's driving run and pass just before the interval set up a left-footed Muntari shot for the second and decisive goal.
The Black Stars won all three of their league games, however many commentators believe they will have to improve further if they are to reach the final.
Meanwhile Guinea's draw meant they reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations for the third time in a row.
Souleymane Youla scored Guinea's goal after 62 minutes when he latched onto a through ball from Mamadou Dioulde Bah.
Brian Brendell earned Namibia their first point of the tournament when he cut in from the right to finish inside the left-hand post.
Guinea finished second in the group with four points.
Comments
Add a comment
Be the first to comment on this
If you are a Gambling.com member, please login at the top left of this page.
If you are not a Gambling.com member, please complete our sign up form—membership is free and it takes just a minute or two to sign up.