Ghana's Black Galaxies Stunned by Madagascar in CHAN Group Opener

• The Black Galaxies of Ghana have lost their opening game at CHAN 2022 against Madagascar
• The West African giants were stunned by the newcomers in the Group C opener in Constantine
• Ghana will have to beat Sudan in their second group game to stand any chance of progressing

Ghana's home-based national team, the Black Galaxies were shocked by newcomers, Madagascar in their opening Group C game at CHAN 2022.

The Black Galaxies were making a return to the tournament after missing the last three editions.

However, their comeback was met with a surprise defeat, after a 2-1 loss in Constantine on Sunday evening.

Madagascar wasted no time in establishing their intentions, making their early pressure count as winger, Solomampionona Koloina broke the deadlock ten minutes into the game.

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Ghana were awarded a penalty a minute after Madagascar's opener, but the decision was overturned after the referee consulted the VAR.

The Black Galaxies came close to getting an equaliser halfway through the first half but midfielder, David Abagna's effort went inches wide.

Moments later, Razak Yussif had Ghana's best opportunity but fired wide, as the Black Galaxies went into the break down by a goal.

Madagascar came back from the break very determined to get a second goal, piling pressure on the Black Galaxies.

Olivier Tokinantenaina pounced on a mistake by Ghana defender, Augustine Randolf to double the minnows' lead.

Ghana coach, Annor Walker replaced Randolf with Augustine Agyapong, who came on to pull one back for Ghana.

The Black Galaxies dominated the closing stages in search of drawing level, but it was too late for the team to get a point.

Awako fit for Madagascar clash

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Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Black Galaxies captain, Gladson Awako has returned to training after an injury scare during Ghana's friendly against Algeria.

The Hearts of Oak midfielder was substituted after 25 minutes, following a knock in the game against the CHAN 2022 hosts.

The experienced playmaker joined practice on Monday, although he was involved in a lighter training session.

Black Galaxies can win CHAN

Former Black Stars goalkeeper, Fatau Dauda is backing Ghana and its home-based team to win the upcoming CHAN tournament in Algeria.

Known as the Black Galaxies, the team is making its return to the competition after edging out rivals, Nigeria in the qualifiers.

Ghana, a two-time tournament finalist, has been drawn in Group C alongside title holders Morocco, newcomers Madagascar and Sudan.