WITH NO African nation scoring a goal at Qatar before the game, the Ghanaians despite losing 3-2, have given the continent something to cheer about in a difficult, hard-fought tie against Portugal, reports Daniel Smith.

Before the game though the big story was all about the Cristiano Ronaldo saga, and the first half was just that too with the free agent having the bulk of the big chances and being involved in everything positive. 

Ronaldo did get the ball in the back of the net on the half hour mark, but Ghana’s Alexander Dijku did well to win a foul and keep the scores level at half time after a stop-start first half. 

The second half was where the action began with Mohammed Kudus the brightest spark for the Black Stars giving his team their best opportunity, but it was 10 minutes later when the game opened up. 

History was made when Ronaldo was brought down by Mohammed Salisu in the box, and subsequently firesd powerfully into the back of the net via a penalty making him the first man to score at five World Cups. 

Ghana, one down, suddenly sparked into life and captain Andre Ayew got on the end of a cut back from Kudus to score Africa’s first goal in Qatar to level the scores. 

Only six minutes later though and Portugal regained the lead via Atletico Madrid’s Joao Felix who excellently slotted past keeper Ati Zigi. 

Portugal looked to have sealed the hame through a fine Rafael Leao finish which put Ghana 3-1 down in the space of two minutes. 

Otto Addo’s side set up a grandstand finish though, giving not only the Black Stars their second goal but also Africa’s via substitute Osman Bukari getting his head on a deflected cross. 

It was in the dying seconds when Ghana’s Inaki Williams tried to benefit from a Portugal goal kick but he slipped and forced Danilo Pereira to a defensive scramble. 

Despite nine minutes of added time, a draw could not be clinched but the disciplined performance meant Addo’a men could walk off the pitch with their heads held high.