The Black Meteors of Ghana played out a 1-1 draw against Algeria at the Stade du 19 Mai 1956 in Annaba in the first leg of the Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifiers.
With the absence of Daniel Afriyie Barnieh missed, coach Ibrahim Tanko named a formidable starting eleven. The latter missed the game through suspension.
The likes of Danlad Ibrahim, in form Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Zubairu Ibrahim all made the list.
The Meteors were compact at the back since they did not want to concede an early goal. Sporting Lisbon winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku fired in long range efforts.
In the second half, the Algerians started on a positive note by causing havoc against Ghana through mesmerizing runs and interpositional play.
The Warriors came close to finding the back of the net after a cross was floated into the box but was cleared by Augustine Arhinful.
Algeria were given a penalty but the kick was saved by Ibrahim Danlad on the 79th minute.
Abdul Fatawu Issahaku scored a stupendous goal on the 85th minute after hitting straight from center into the roof of the post to give Ghana the lead.
Just when the Meteors thought of winning, the host were awarded another penalty, they were not going to miss this time round, Bekkouche Chemseddine stepped up and drilled in the equaliser from the spot.
It finished 1-1 after full time. The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, at the Baba Yara Stadium.
Source: Soccanews.com
