Ghana’s Black Starlets suffered a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Morocco after conceding with the final kick of the game in the second of their two-match international friendly series in Rabat.
The defeat came despite a determined performance from Ghana, who played much of the second half with 10 men and appeared on course to secure a draw.
Morocco took an early lead in the 11th minute after a defensive lapse by Ghana allowed the hosts to capitalise on a poor clearance from the goalkeeper.
The Black Starlets responded strongly and created several opportunities before the break, with Issah Alidu posing a constant threat.
The Ghana forward came close on three occasions after finding himself in one-on-one situations with the Moroccan goalkeeper, but was unable to convert.
Ghana’s challenge became greater 10 minutes into the second half when captain Abdul Rafiu Issah was shown a red card for a strong challenge on a Moroccan attacker.
Despite being reduced to 10 players, the Black Starlets continued to push forward and were rewarded in the 75th minute.
Yaw Acheampong produced a superb free-kick to beat the Moroccan goalkeeper and restore parity at 1-1.
The equaliser gave Ghana renewed momentum, with the visitors pushing for a second goal despite their numerical disadvantage.
Gavi Robinho came close to completing the turnaround, but his effort was blocked by a Moroccan defender and went out for a corner.
Morocco quickly turned defence into attack from the resulting set-piece, launching a counter-attack that ended with the hosts scoring the decisive goal with the final kick of the match.
The result leaves the two-match series level, with Ghana having won the opening encounter 2-0 before Morocco secured the second meeting 2-1.
The friendlies were Ghana’s final international preparations for the WAFU Zone B U17 Championship, which will also serve as the qualifying tournament for the 2027 U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
