Ghana 'shows Africa how to win'
19 October 2009
South Afric's 2010 World Cup Organising Committee (OC) has hailed Ghana's historic win against Brazil in the 2009 Fifa Under-20 World Cup as a example for African football.
Historic victory
Ghana's "Black Satellites" beat Brazil in a thrilling final of the tournament in Egypt on Friday to become the first African team to clinch the under-20 World Cup title.
They won after a nail-biting penalty shootout victory against the Brazilians, despite being reduced to 10 men in the 37th minute of the game.
"What a great moment for African football, and we want to congratulate Ghana's Black Satellites on an exciting, historic victory that has warmed the hearts of all African football fans," said OC chief executive Danny Jordaan, who watched from the stands in Cairo.
Africa's 'golden age of football'
Jordaan said Africa was experiencing a golden age of football as the continent hosted the under-20 Fifa World Cup, the under-17 Fifa World Cup in Nigeria and the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa in quick succession.
He was quick to point out, however, that it was not enough for Africa to simply host these tournaments, saying that teams should also reach the final stages on home soil.
"With a fairytale victory against Brazil in the final, Ghana's Black Satellites have shown the way and proudly put African football on the world map," Jordaan said.
"We're delighted for them, and hope it's a taste of what's to come at the Under-17 Fifa World Cup and the 2010 Fifa World Cup next year."
The focus now shifts to the Under-17 World Cup, which kicks off in Nigeria next weekend.
Source: BuaNews
