South Africa managed to clinch a 1-0 victory over Ghana in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers at the FNB stadium on Friday, ensuring Ghana's first defeat in the competition.
Bongokuhle Hlongwane's late strike ensured all three points for Bafana Bafana against CK Akonnor's much changed side who were underwhelming throughout.
South Africa are now top of the Group G standings and will be excited with the positive result. Here are five things we learned from the game.
Emmanuel Lomotey has no place in Black Stars
This will likely be agreed on by many fans as they have expressed huge discontent with the player for a while. Lomotey has seemingly earned a place in the Black Stars squad on a consistent basis but has underwhelmed each time he is called to show his skills on the football pitch. It is time for him to go.
Black Stars are lacking needed quality
This is no surprise as well. When it was announced that seven players will not travel with the team to Johannesburg, everyone feared the worst. The worst has come to pass as the team showed little quality and drive throughout the duration of the game, costing Ghana all three points. The team needs all starters back.
CK Akonnor seems out of his depth
CK Akonnor was handed the Black Stars job after Kwesi Appiah's exit in 2019. The former Kotoko boss took the job amid some criticism with fans doubting his ability to lead the national side. At this point, fans are being proven right as the players are not performing to expectation and results are unconvincing.
Ghana need a quality striker
Plain and simple. Ghana have struggled to score goals recently and it is becoming a huge problem. In the last four games, the Black Stars have scored just one goal, a poor tally for a side expected to rule Africa in the near future. A clinical finisher is needed and a clinical finisher is needed fast.
Chemistry a real issue
It is no surprise as well as the side keeps changing as matches are being played. Also, COVID-19 and injuries have turned out to be a real issue limiting key selections for the national side. In the near future hopefully, Akonnor will get a consistent starting XI who will deliver the goods.