Ghana are playing South American giants Uruguay in their final group-stage match of the FIFA World Cup 2022 with the African side needing a draw to make it to the Round of 16. And the side had the opportunity to do just that in the first half, but the golden chance was squandered by skipper Andre Ayew, in a moment that would surely take the Ghanaian fans back to the 2010 World Cup, when a similar moment hurt Ghana's push to reach the semifinals of the mega event.
The Ghanaians were awarded a penalty in the 16th minute after midfielder Jordan Ayew cut inside from the left and hit a low shot on goal which Andre Ayew flicked towards Mohammed Kudus. But the youngster was felled by goalkeeper Sergio Rochet and after an initial offside call was given, the decision was overturned by the referees.
Skipper Andre Ayew went to take the spot kick, but the attempt was a tame one and the goalkeeper did well to jump to his right and save the penalty. Prior to this, Ayew had scored his last 25 penalties before missing in 2022.
The miss was sure to have given Ayew flashes of Ghana's 2010 quarterfinal match against Uruguay. In that game, Ghana dominated the extra time, with the scores tied a 1-1. In the closing minutes of the game, controversial forward Luis Suarez clearly stopped the ball with his hands to prevent Ghana from scoring the goal. Then, Asamoah Gyan stood up to take the penalty, which sent the ball over the crossbar as Uruguay and the red-carded Suarez celebrated their survival.
The match went into penalties and Uruguay won 4-2 to qualify for the semifinals. Ironically, Suarez is the only player from the 2010 match to start in this game.
The miss will hurt Ayew even more, given that he was a part of that Ghana squad that created history. Meanwhile, Suarez went on to assist Giorgian de Arrascaeta's two goals as Uruguay took their chances. They look set to qualify for the Round of 16, with South Korea currently held to a 1-1 draw against Portugal.
