Coach Ibrahim Tanko reveals why Ghana suffered heavy defeat to Morocco, shifts focus to crucial match against Guinea

Coach Ibrahim Tanko has attributed Ghana’s humiliating defeating against Morocco to fatigue.

The Black Meteors were thrashed 5-1 by the North African giants in Tuesday’s Group A second game at the ongoing CAF U-23 AFCON, leaving their hopes of securing a semi-final spot hanging by a thread.

Asked about what went wrong for Ibrahim Tanko, who saw his side humiliated, the tactician blamed lack of rest for the defeat.

“The Moroccans had two days more rest than us. As we see the Guinea game against Congo; Guinea we’re faster because they had more rest. That’s the reason we didn’t play well.”

The loss not only dashed their hopes of an immediate knockout stage qualification but also secured Morocco’s place in the semi-finals.

Despite the setback, Tanko remains optimistic as they look ahead to their crucial final group match on June 30th.

“We have two days to prepare for our pivotal group match. Physical recovery is crucial; we had one less day of rest compared to Morocco. While it’s not an excuse, our fatigue was evident. We still have an opportunity, and we will seize it,” affirmed the coach.

The highly anticipated match, which will determine the second team to progress from Group A to the semi-finals, is set to take place in Tangier.

Tanko and his coaching staff are now focused on regrouping, fine-tuning their strategies, and revitalizing the team’s spirits as they gear up for this critical encounter.

Ghana’s U23 squad understands the magnitude of the upcoming challenge, and their determination to secure a positive result remains unwavering as both sides vie for a coveted spot in the semi-finals.