USA vs. Ghana 2010 FIFA World Cup: USA Sent Packing By Passionate Ghanaian

The second match in the round of 16 has thrown up a mouthwatering feast at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace.

The United States were sent their marching orders after Ghana defeated them 2-1 in added time.

Ghana started the match on the front foot with an early strike from Prince Boateng from the edge of the area. Boateng only qualified to play for Ghana early this year. 

Nevertheless the US found it tough in the first 20 minutes as Ghana continued to press with the majority of the possession.

Former Ghana international and African star Abedi Pele was present in Rustenburg to watch his son Andre Ayew dazzle his way in the midfield. Ayew, who was on a yellow card prior to the match, received his first and only yellow for the match and second for the tournament from a soft decision. Ayew will now miss the quarterfinal clash with Uruguay.

In the second half the US came out more determined and had much better structure to their play, especially going forward.

Numerous chances were created but thanks to Richard Kingston, Ghana survived.

In the 62nd minute the young Jonathan Mensah gave away a needless penalty after leaving his foot only for Joze Altidore to be fouled.

Landon Donovan made no error in putting the ball in the net with a confident spot kick.

With the US level on terms the match was edge of the seat viewing with quality attacks from both teams.

After 90 minutes the game ended 1-1, which called for thirty more minutes of added time. Ghana brought on Inter Milano midfielder Sulley Muntari, who immediately got into the action.

Not long into the first half of extra time Gyan muscled his way with two defenders on either side to take a left footed strike. The ball flew into the night only for Africa to stand and cheer.

The US went into the game with full confidence having overcome the group frustration and finishing on top, only to find a hungry Ghanaian team thriving for success.

With so much talk regarding the poor performances of African teams at the Finals, Ghana in some way restored the image of football on the continent even if it's just for the time being.

Africa United, Africa Ignite!!