Ghana unable to mount comeback against Niger in quarterfinal defeat

Niger secured a place in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Black Galaxies. An own goal by Konadu Yiadom and a spectacular goal by Hainikoye gave Niger the surprise victory over the two-time finalists.

Early on in the match, Augustine Agyapong nearly gave Niger the lead with a misplaced backpass, but Danlad Ibrahim was able to save the ball for a corner. Niger eventually took the lead when Konadu Yiadom accidentally turned in Imrana’s header in the 11th minute. Black Galaxies struggled to create opportunities in the first half, and the score remained 1-0 at halftime.

Niger continued to dominate in the second half and extended their lead through Soumana Hainikoye’s goal of the tournament contender. Hainikoye beautifully bent the ball to the far post from outside the box, leaving Danlad Ibrahim no chance to make a save.

Black Galaxies failed to have a shot on target until the final moments of the game, when a shot by substitute Augustine Boakye was blocked off the line.