Gyan – Winning Mentality Vital To Mali Victory

Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has attributed their victory over Mali to entering the game with a winning mentality.

The Black Stars beat Les Aigles by a lone goal thanks to a Mubarak Wakaso first half goal from the spot, which lightened up their chances at the 2013 Orange Africa Cup of Nations underway in South Africa.

Earlier, the Black Stars gave up a two-goal lead to settle for a 2-2 draw with DR Congo in their Group B opener, but the put up a spirited performance to earn their first win at the tournament in Port Elizabeth.

“We came into the game with a winning mentality and it helped us. It was a difficult game though, but we played better. No team at this tournament can be underrated.”

Ghana sits at the summit of the group with four points with a place at the knockout stage in sight; however Gyan believes there is still much to do to book a place at the next round.

“We have four points but we need to more (against Niger) to qualify,” Gyan added.

Ghana scored from the spot against the Mali, but Gyan, the familiar face with scoring penalties from the Black Stars was nowhere near the ball when the time came.

“I said at the beginning of the tournament that I’m not responsible for penalty kicks in open play. I will come in when it becomes decisive. Now, Wakaso (Mubarak) is the first taker and we all have to support,” disclosed the Ghana captain who missed a first half penalty as Ghana felled to Zambia at the semis last year.

Ghana next play Mali on today in Port Elizabeth whilst DR Congo and Mali battle it out in Durban.

 

Short URL: http://thechronicle.com.gh/?p=51126