Lewis Koumas scored a stoppage-time header to earn Wales a 1-1 draw with Ghana in Cardiff, denying the visitors a morale-boosting victory ahead of the World Cup. Ghana, preparing for their Group L opener against Panama in Toronto, took the lead through substitute Caleb Yirenkyi in the second half. However, Koumas glanced in a superb cross from Neco Williams in added time to level the match.
The draw extended Ghana's winless run to six matches, with five straight friendly defeats since qualifying for the World Cup last October. New head coach Carlos Queiroz, in his first game in charge, admitted his side must learn from the lapse. 'The win was in our pocket, but it's time to learn,' he said. 'When we are winning 1-0, there's no way that we can let the win escape from our pocket, but unfortunately it happens.'
Wales head coach Craig Bellamy praised Ghana's potential, noting their pace and transition play. 'You have a tough group, a new manager,' he said. 'You're a dangerous team in transition because of the speed you always have in the top line. Your first game is Panama... If you win one game, you might get into the knockout stage.'
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, named in the squad despite facing trial next year on sexual assault charges, started and was booked for a foul on Dan James. He escaped further punishment after a challenge on David Brooks. Queiroz defended his selection, saying he had no qualms about including the former Arsenal player.
Ghana are without first-choice centre-backs and Mohammed Kudus through injury for the World Cup. Queiroz remains optimistic, emphasising the need for time and preparation. 'One training session is better than zero,' he said. 'We will do as much work as possible before the first game against Panama.'
