Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo has reacted to the senior team’s 2-0 loss to Japan in the 2025 Kirin Cup at the Toyota Stadium.
The Black Stars conceded in the 12th minute when AS Monaco midfielder Takumi Minamino capitalized on a sleeping Ghana defence to plant home the opener before Ritsu Deon doubled the lead in the 60th, ten minutes after Ghana midfielder, Francis Abu broke his leg from a horrible tackle.
Otto Addo said: “Overall, we lost to Japan in terms of the number of shots they took,” Addo said.
“Japan also started the second half very well. They controlled the game better and created the clearer chances. We have to admit that they deserved the win.”
“This is the level of intensity we must be prepared for. Japan were very efficient, very aggressive, and they punished our mistakes,” he added.
Japan coach praises his team
Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu praised his team’s patience and maturity in breaking down a Ghana side armed with strong individual talent but organised in a compact defensive block.
“Ghana retreated and strengthened their defence, but this was good preparation for the World Cup,” he said.
“It showed us how to break down an opponent with powerful players who defend in an organised manner.”
“The players were determined to keep the score at zero. They showed that good offence comes from good defence.”
The Black Stars will take on Korea Republic on Tuesday, October 18 at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in their final game for the November window.
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