The first leg of the 2022 World Cup playoff between Ghana and Nigeria has rake in a historic GH₵1.4 million ($190,000) football revenue record in the West African nation.
This is the highest amount ever recorded in any football match in the country following the meeting of the two nations at the Baba Yara Stadium.
The Black Stars drew 0-0 with the Super Eagles last Friday with the return leg scheduled for the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
Ghana’s National Sports Authority boss Professor Peter Twumasi said “This is the highest amount the we’ve recorded from ticket sales from any national team football match, ever.”
Ghana had more of the possession and chances but proved sloppy in their finishing during the first leg in Kumasi.
Only twice did they test goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, who made a stop from a stinging shot by Issahaku Fatawu in the 33rd minute and then again in the 71st minute from Mohammed Kudus.
Nigeria’s best opening fell to Moses Simon 10 minutes into the second half but he squandered the chance to score a vital away goal.
Nigeria were awarded a penalty with 15 minutes left when Idrissu Baba Mohamed handled the ball after being tripped in his own penalty area, but after a VAR check the referee changed his decision and handed Ghana a free kick.
Ghana were playing their first game under new coach Otto Addo, who had former Brighton & Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton as a consultant.
He handed debuts to AS Roma teenager Felix Ohene-Gyan and 33-year-old former Belgium defender Denis Odoi, who switched allegiance ahead of the two-legged playoff.
Leicester City’s Ademola Lookman, who had previously played for England at under-21 level, made his Nigeria debut as a substitute for the last 15 minutes.
The winner of the tie will qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year.
credit: ghanasoccernet
