Ghana captain, Andre Ayew has described Gabon as a “small” country after they failed to adhere to the “Fair Play” rule.
The Panthers came back late to hold the Black Stars to a 1-1 draw at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in the second Group C game of the 2021 AFCON on Friday.
Andre Ayew fired the four time African champions into the lead with just 26 minutes played and managed to hold on to the slim lead into the first half break.
The Panthers looked better in the second round, taking the game to the Black Stars with much energy and power.
Ghana relinquished the lead later in the match to decrease their chances of qualifying for the last 16 stage.
Substitute, Jim Allevinah took advantage of the “Fair Play” rule where he should have sent the ball back to Ghana but decided against it to slot home the equalizer on the 88th minute. Andre Ayew finds that action as unfortunate and “small” of the Panthers.
“A Ghanaian player was on the floor. We had the ball and we put the ball out intentionally,” Ayew said.
“They [Gabon] must take the ball and give it back to Ghana. Simple as that. “We were waiting for the ball and the ball was never coming back. And they played and that’s how they got their only open chance of the game.
That is it. “It’s very small of them. I’m disappointed in them, but no problem. We are Ghana, we’re going to win the last game and go through.” Andre Ayew said.
Ghana are faced with a must win situation against debutants, Comoros on Tuesday to increase their chances of qualifying for the round 16. A win will put Ghana on three points and could qualify as one of the best third place teams.
Gabon on the hand have collected four points from two games and through to the round 16 – haven beaten Comoros 1-0 in the opener.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
