Ghana’s hopes of handing new head coach Carlos Queiroz a winning debut were dashed in dramatic fashion after Wales scored a stoppage-time equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw in an international friendly in Cardiff.
The Black Stars appeared destined for victory after Caleb Yirenkyi gave Ghana the lead midway through the second half following an improved display after the break.
Yirenkyi reacted quickest to convert from close range in the 66th minute after Wales failed to deal with a dangerous attack initiated by Kamaldeen Sulemana, putting Ghana ahead against the run of first-half play.
Wales had dominated much of the opening half, creating several scoring opportunities and forcing goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi into a series of important saves. The hosts also struck the crossbar as they piled pressure on the Ghanaian defence.
However, Ghana returned from halftime with renewed energy and tactical discipline, growing into the contest and creating more attacking threats through Jordan Ayew, Sulemana and Fatawu Issahaku.
The Black Stars defended resolutely after taking the lead and looked on course to secure an impressive result in Queiroz’s first match in charge.
But deep into stoppage time, Wales found a breakthrough when substitute Koumas scored his maiden international goal in the 93rd minute, rescuing a draw for the hosts and denying Ghana a memorable victory.
Despite the disappointment of conceding late, the performance offered encouraging signs for Ghana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Queiroz’s tactical adjustments helping the team recover from a difficult first-half display.
The result leaves both sides with positives to take from the encounter as they continue preparations for upcoming international assignments.
Result: Wales 1-1 Ghana.
