2017 FIFA U17 World Cup: Samuel Fabin concedes late first half penalty aided their win over Niger

Published on: 18 October 2017
2017 FIFA U17 World Cup: Samuel Fabin concedes late first half penalty aided their win over Niger
MUMBAI, INDIA - OCTOBER 18: Eric Ayiah of Ghana scores the opening goal from a penalty during the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 Round of 16 match between Ghana and Niger at Dr DY Patil Cricket Stadium on October 18, 2017 in Mumbai, India. (Photo by Jan Kruger - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

 

Ghana's U-17 coach Samuel Paa Kwesi Fabin has admitted that the late first half penalty strike calmed their nerves in the 2-0 win over Niger in the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup round of 16 match on Wednesday.

The much anticipated encounter was heading for a stalemate until Ghana were given a life-line when Eric Ayiah was cut down in the Niger box by Farouk Idrissa in the 45th minute, and referee Artur Soares Dias whistled for a penalty, which was expertly scored by the Ghana captain.

The second goal would arrive in the final moments, as substitute Richard Danso’s strike proved too strong for goalkeeper Khalid Lawali to keep out of his net, as Ghana capped a convincing performance at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium.

"The penalty came at a crucial time, it was very timely and it really boosted our confidence for the second half. We came in created so many chances but erratic shooting and indecision robbed us of so many balls but in the tournament of this nature goals too many does not really matter," the burly trainer told reporters.

"Even though we created them, the good thing is that we are creating them and we're scoring one or two which okay for us."

Ghana will play West African neighbours Mali in the quarter final stage of the competition on Saturday October 21 in Guwahati.

Reuben Obodai

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