Rwanda coach John McKinstry lauds team performance despite defeat to Ghana

Rwanda coach John McKinstry has patted his players despite their 1-0 defeat to Ghana in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Amavubi fell to a late Mubarak Wakaso free kick having put up a staunch challenge for over 80 minutes.

John McKinstry side were hoping to repeat their famous 1-0 win over the Black Stars back in 2003 when Ghana ultimately failed to qualify for the 2004 AFCON.

But the superior quality of the Ghana side eventually came to the fore as Avram Grant’s side picked up the maximum three points from the patchy Amahoro Stadium pitch.

The defeated Rwanda coach John McKinstry however congratulated his team for putting up a good fight even though it fell short of getting the desired result.

“I thought it was an even game, I thought in the first half we caused some problems for Ghana,” he said.

“But in the second half, Ghana with all their star players were bit stronger.

“We are disappointed in the result but I have to congratulate my players for putting up such a good performance.”

Ghana maintains its winning run in the qualifying campaign with the win over Rwanda.

The Black Stars will next play Mozambique when the 2017 AFCON qualifiers resume next year.