The Black Stars suffered a narrow defeat to South Korea in their second match of the 2025 Kirin Challenge Cup, but the performance was a significant improvement from their disappointing display against Japan in the opening fixture of the tournament.
South Korea secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory on Tuesday November 18, relying on sharp attacking transitions and disciplined defending to hold off a spirited Ghanaian side that showed far better organisation, energy, and tactical clarity than they did in their previous outing.
Unlike the slow, disjointed performance against Japan, Ghana started the match with intent, pressing higher up the pitch and maintaining better control in midfield. There were a few tactical adjustments by coach Otto Addo that resulted in a more compact shape and better link-up play between defence and attack.
Ghana created great chances through out the game, signalling a renewed confidence in possession, and scored two goals but were all ruled offside.
Despite Ghana’s improved structure, South Korea drew first blood through a clinical finish from Hwang Hee-chan, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who later saved a penalty for the Black Stars.
Japan Beat Ghana In First Game Of Kirin Cup 2025
The goal energised the team, and Ghana pushed aggressively for an equaliser in the final 20 minutes, enjoying their best period of sustained pressure in the match. However, South Korea’s defence held firm, denying Ghana from levelling the score.
Positives Despite the Defeat:
While the Black Stars leave the pitch winless, the improvement was clear:
▪︎ Better midfield control compared to the Japan match
▪︎ More purposeful attacking movements
▪︎ Stronger defensive organisation
▪︎ Greater intensity and team cohesion, although the attack lacked urgency.
The performance gives the technical team renewed optimism ahead of Ghana’s upcoming fixtures as they continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup next year.
The Kirin Challenge Cup provided Ghana with tough but valuable international tests. Although the results were not favourable, the significant strides made in the second game indicate that the Black Stars are capable of rediscovering the consistency and sharpness needed for competitive action later in the year.
