30/04 - 20:00
30/04 - 20:00
Saving the best for last, Group H could be the closest group of all, so who will make it into the Round of 16?
In collaboration with our good friends The Graphic Bomb, Playmaker have produced a World Cup guide packed with info on each of the nations taking part this winter and it's a pleasure to be able to share the stats, expert opinion and player analysis that we've stockpiled in the process.
After looking at Portugal, we're moving on to Ghana next...
Missing from the action in 2018, Ghana had to fight tooth and nail to reach this year’s World Cup.
In the qualifying group stage, the Black Stars sealed their play-off place in their last game after they beat South Africa to go level on points. The only way to separate the two teams was on goals scored – and Ghana had more. They then drew 0-0 at home to Nigeria in the first leg of their World Cup play-off before an epic 1-1 draw away booked the African side’s ticket to the big event.
The less said about Ghana’s performance at this year’s AFCON, the better - suffice to say Otto Addo’s men will hope to show their true potential to the world in Qatar.
Star Player – Thomas Partey
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Thomas Partey is enjoying a tremendous start to the season for Arsenal and he will hope to bring his good form to Qatar.
The Gunners midfielder is a strong physical presence and also boasts a pass completion percentage of 88% in the Premier League this season. Having one of the most in-form midfielders in Europe in their ranks is a huge plus for Ghana.
To underline his importance to the team, it was Partey’s crucial goal against Nigeria in the World Cup play-offs that secured the Black Stars’ place in the tournament.
Wild Card – Mohammed Kudus
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22-year-old Mohammed Kudus has been a welcome surprise in European football this season with 10 goals in 21 games for Ajax, and he will certainly be on every elite club’s radar after his recent performances in the Champions League.
His tactical versatility vouches for his football intelligence, as he’s able to play on both wings and as an attacking midfielder. Ajax primarily use him as a false No. 9 and he’s been banging them in for fun. Group H, beware!
Opinion
On paper, Ghana are one of the weaker teams in the group, but the Black Stars could be dark horses in the tournament.
Being the underdog will take some pressure off, and head coach Otto Addo has had a positive impact since his appointment in the wake of a disappointing AFCON.
Addo and his players have something of a free hit, as qualification itself was a success, so they could prove dangerous opposition.
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