CHARLOTTE, NC – The Black Stars of Ghana found themselves on the wrong side of a 2-0 scoreline in an international friendly clash against Mexico’s El Tri Saturday night.
The match, held at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, was a part of Ghana’s ongoing tour of the United States in preparation for the African qualifiers for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, commencing in November and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
Despite starting the game energetically, Ghana struggled to break through Mexico’s defense, ultimately succumbing to defeat.
In the early stages, Chris Hughton’s side displayed a promising start, launching attacks with winger Joseph Paintsil making a near breakthrough as early as the second minute.
Mexico gradually asserted their dominance over the match from the 25th minute onwards.
But the first half ended even.
Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, who had not scored for Mexico in a while, found the net in the 57th minute with an assist from Luis Chavez.
Ghana’s attempts to penetrate Mexico’s high defensive line proved fruitless, and a counter-attack coupled with a defensive hesitation by goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi allowed substitute Uriel Antuna to score the second goal in the 72nd minute and seal victory for El Tri.
The Mexicans demonstrated an organized defensive performance throughout the match.
Ghana held 54% of ball possession but was unable to produce a shot on goal in 90 minutes.
In contrast, Mexico had 12 opportunities and four shots on target.
The defeat extended Ghana’s winless streak against Mexico to four encounters, accumulating a 6-1 aggregate scoreline.
The Black Stars’ focus now shifts to their upcoming friendly against the United States, scheduled for Tuesday, October 17 in Nashville, Tennessee.
