Ghana wins 2-1 against USA

This was an important match for both teams as a win could mean qualification into the second round so they have everything to play for.

Ghana had first taken the lead in the 22nd minute when midfielder Haminu Dramani dispossessed Claudio Reyna and strode into the penalty area to curl the ball past a diving Kasey Keller. In the 43rd minute, midfielder Clint Dempsey fired the U.S. back into the game with a goal. However, just before the end of the first half, the advantage was returned back to the Ghanians when referee Merk ruled that U.S. defender Oguchi Onyewu had pushed over Ghana's Razak Pimpong inside the penalty box. Stephen Appiah stepped up and duly converted the penalty.

This was a hard-fought, tactical encounter. Ghana was again a joy to watch as they attacked the USA and players Stephen Appiah and Michael Essien were outstanding. What was even better for the Ghanians was their tight and disciplined defence, deflecting the USA attacks which looked significantly sharper in this match.

Soccer Pundit feels that it is unfortunate for the USA to concede the dubious penalty but there is no question of Ghania deserving this victory. They should do well in the second round but the loss of Appiah and Essien who collected the second yellow cards will be a significant loss to them.