Tunisia Disappointed Over Quarterfinal Loss to Ghana

Tunisia faced Ghana last night, ending in tragic defeat

Last night, Tunisia lost the 2012 African Cup of Nations quarterfinal match against Ghana 2-1, after extra time in Franceville, Gabon. Ghana’s victory qualifies the team for the semi-final match of CAN 2012.

Goals for Ghana were scored by John Mensah in 10th minute and Andre Ayew in 101th minute. Tunisia’s only goal was scored by Saber Khélifa in the 42nd minute. The encounter also saw the expulsion of Tunisian player Aymen Abdennour in the 109th minute. Karim Haggui of the Eagles of Carthage was booked as well as Boye, Ayemang Badu and Annan of the Ghanaian team.

The first half of the encounter wrapped up with a draw, 1-1. However, Ghana’s first goal was scored after a faulty corner kick by Karim Haggui, which Ghanian player Menasah turned into a goal. Ghana’s second goal came after the ball escaped Tunisian goalkeeper Balbouli’s hands and went straight into the Tunisians’ empty nets.

The Black Stars continued to increase pressure on the Tunisian team until the end of the encounter. Tunisian striker Aymen Abdennour felt provoked and had a violent confrontation with Ayew, which led to his expulsion.

The match came as a major disappointment to the Eagles, who have had several domestic campaigns launched in encouragement of the team. Following the 2011 uprisings and the recent regime change, Tunisians have come to see the championship as a refreshing shift in the national dialogue.

Ghana will face Zambia for the semi-final on February 8th, 2012.

Source: TAP, Globalnet