The story of two FIFA World Cup matches that changed the world's perception of African football - 'It was incredibly unfair'
In this episode of The Black Stars Podcast we examine the rise, fall & renaissance of Ghana's national team and hear how two games changed everything for the continent.
In this episode of The Black Stars Podcast we examine the rise, fall & renaissance of Ghana's national team and hear how two games changed everything for the continent.Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below
Rise of the Black Stars
Ghana's national team, also known as the Black Stars, has a rich history in African football. From their early successes in the African Cup of Nations to their first FIFA World Cup appearance in 2006, the team had always been a source of pride for the continent.
Heartbreak in Germany 2006
The first game that would change the world's perception of African football was the quarter-final match between Ghana and Uruguay in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. With the game tied at 1-1 in extra time, a controversial handball by Uruguay's Luis Suarez denied Ghana a winning goal, leading to their eventual loss in the penalty shootout. Many saw this as a blatant injustice against the African team.
Redemption and Renaissance
Despite the heartbreak in 2010, Ghana's national team continued to excel on the international stage. Their impressive performances in subsequent World Cup tournaments and African Cup of Nations revitalized the world's perception of African football. The unfair incident in 2010 only served to motivate the Black Stars to greater heights.
