Asamoah Gyan has revealed he took the decision to play in Ghana’s epic win over Algeria at the 2015 AFCON based on instincts he was going to score.
The 29-year-old scored a brilliant goal in virtually the last kick of the game to keep the Black Stars alive in the tournament after losing its opening group game against Senegal.
Gyan had been hit with a bout of malaria just days before the start of the tournament in Equatorial Guinea and was not expected to play a part in Ghana’s campaign until at least the final stages of the competition.
But the Al Ain ace risked worsening his condition to surprisingly start the game for the Black Stars.
His last minute strike justified his importance to the team while confirming his status as one of the best strikers from Africa.
The former Sunderland man who shocked the entire Ghana contingent with his insistence on playing from the start now reveals he forced himself to play the game because he had a feeling he was going to score.
“I took the decision to play like five hours to the match,†he told Metro TV’s Sports File.
“I called the team doctor and told him I want to play. He didn’t want to risk me but I told everyone I wanted to play and everyone was surprised.
“I wasn’t feeling well but I felt I was going to do something in this game and I would say thanks to my instincts.â€
Ghana eventually went all the way to the finals where they were beaten by Cote d’Ivoire in a penalty shootout.