Posted by On this day, June 22nd in 2006 (14 years ago), Ghana Black Stars defeated USA 2-1 in Nuremberg to book a place in the Round of 16 of the World Cup.
The Black Stars of Ghana came into the game brimming with confidence after defeating Czech Republic 2-0 in their previous group game, whiles the Americans came into the game after holding Italy to a 1-1 stalemate.
The game started on a high intensity, the referee stamped his authority on the game after showing Michael Essien an early yellow card, one which made him ineligible for Ghana’s next game. Eddie Lewis also needed an early treatment for an eyebrow cut, which was caused by John Mensah’s stray elbow.
Ghana took the lead in the 22nd minute through Haminu Dramani, he robbed Claudio Reyna of possession on the edge of the area and curled the ball past Kasey Keller.
USA responded in the 43rd minute, DaMarcus Beasley intercepted a pass from Derek Boateng and curled a delicious cross into the path of Dempsey, who buried the ball home.
There was one more twist to the first half, Ghana were awarded a penalty after Onyewu fouled Razak Pimpong. Skipper Stephen Appiah stepped up and coolly dispatched the spot-kick, Ghana went into the break 2-1 up.
The second half was less interesting game compared to the first half, USA saw more of the ball whiles Ghana kept men behind the ball and showed their threat on the break. Mathew Amoah and Onyewu came the closest to scoring for either sides.
The game ended 2-1 in favor of Ghana, Stephen Appiah was named man of the match. Ghana at their first taste of the World Cup booked a place in the round of 16, finishing 2nd with 6 points and a point behind group leaders Italy. Czech Republic and USA bowed out.
Ghana went on to play world champions Brazil in the round of 16, they lost 3-0. Italy on the other hand went on to win the World Cup after defeating Zidane’s France 5-3 on penalties in the final. The game after 90 minutes and extra time ended 1-1.
Line ups for the game;
Ghana: Richard Kingston, John Mensah, John Pantsil, Shilla illiasu, Habib Mohamed, Stephen Appiah, Michael Essien, Haminu Dramani (Tachie-Mensah 80), Derek Boateng (Otto Addo 45), Mathew Amoah (Eric Addo 59), Razak Pimpong.
USA: Keller, Onyewu, Conrad, Cherundolo (Johnson 60), Bocanegra, Dempsey, Reyna (Olsen 40), Lewis (Convey 74), Beasley, Donovan, McBride.
Highlights of the game