Africa-Press – Ghana. Ghana’s Black Stars lost 2-0 to Japan in the Kirin Challenge Cup on Friday as both teams continued preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Takumi Minamino opened the scoring in the first half before Ritsu Doan added a second after the break to seal victory for the hosts.
Ghana were without key players including Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew.
Coach Otto Addo made several changes, handing starts to goalkeeper Joseph Annang, Kojo Oppong Peprah, Derrick Kohn and Francis Abu.
Japan dominated early, and Ghana suffered a setback when Kwasi Sibo was forced off injured.
Captain Antoine Semenyo struggled and was substituted in the second half, while Abu also left the pitch on a stretcher after a devastating injury.
The visitors created chances late in the game but failed to convert. Japan held firm to secure the win.
Ghana would face South Korea in another friendly on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
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