FIFA World Cup : Ghana vs Uruguay

 Ghana & Uruguay met for their last group encounter, both needing a win to ensure a place in the round of 16. The game started at a lively pace with both sides looking at domination. While Uruguay had the first look at their opponents goal, when Nunez took the ball into the box, but was denied by Partey who nicked the ball away. On the other side, Ghana's first real attack had The Latin Americans in all sorts of trouble, as Jordan sped into their box from left & his shot is taken up by Kudus who is brought down by keeper Rochet in an attempt to parry the ball away. A lengthy VAR check had the referee point to the dreaded spot, as the Uruguayans started to protest in vain. Capt Andre Ayew stepped up to take the kick, but he looked confused & his poor shot was easily saved by Rochet, as Ghana let slip a golden opportunity to go ahead in the game. Uruguay regrouped & buoyed by the save went all out in attack & in the 26th minute Their no 10, De Arrascaeta scored the 1st goal for Uruguay in this World Cup. Suarez's low shot was saved by the Ghana keeper, but Arrascaeta nodded in the ball on rebound. Minutes later he had added to his tally, as Nunez tapped the ball to Suarez & he in turn lobbed it to Arrascaeta whose low shot fizzed in, as Uruguay went up 2-0, looking good to qualify. At half time Uruguay looked good & setlled. 

2nd half was pretty much the same story, as the match progressed with both sides intent on scoring. Ghana had their moments, but poor finishing was their bane, as minutes ticked away. Just when Uruguay looked certain to qualify, news filtered in that in the other match of the Group South Korea had taken the lead against Portugal, meaning they would pip Uruguay to the 2nd spot on goal difference (more goals scored by them). Frantic football ensured, as both Ghana & Uruguay could go up with one more goal. Uruguay had the better of the exchanges, but Cavani, Suarez, Valverde et all could not get that elusive goal, as the referee blew the long whistle. With this score, both Uruguay & Ghana are eliminated. The Latin American, former champions were distraught as for the larger part of the game, they were in control of the game & won it fair & square, but with South Korea upsetting Portugal in the other game, it was curtains for Suarez & co.