UEFA International Tournament: Ernest Ofori scores for Black Starlets in defeat to Russia

Great Somas Academy captain, Ernest Ofori, came off the bench to score a consolation goal for the Black Starlets in their opening game at the UEFA International Tournament on Wednesday afternoon.

The 15-year-old was introduced in the second half of the game and scored a consolation for Ghana who lost 3-1 to Russia.

Goals highlights: Russia 3-1 Ghana

Great Somas Academy midfielder Ernest Ofori came off the bench to score the only goal for the Black Starlets in their first game at the UEFA U-16 4-nation tournament. pic.twitter.com/GnMsc3qyJF

— Lawrence Baidoo (@kweku_lawrence) April 24, 2024

Russia had a brilliant start to the game as they took the lead after three minutes through Vadim Shilov. The hosts capitalised on a high line from the Ghanaians.

Shilov beat his marker to a through ball before firing the ball past the goalkeeper to put Russia 1-0 ahead.

The home side doubled their lead in the 30th minute after they were awarded a penalty following a handball in the box.

Russia extended their lead to three after 34 minutes, stealing possession from the Ghanaian defence before putting the ball behind the net.

Laryea Kingston made changes to his set-up after coming back from the halftime break.

Ofori, who was one of the few changes made by the head coach, gave the Starlets a lifeline in the 65th minute.

The Great Somas midfielder received a pass outside the Russia 18-yard box. He beat the first press before hitting a delightful ball from the area which beat the goalkeeper to reduce the deficit for Kingston’s side.

Despite seeing more of the ball in the dying minutes of the game, Ghana couldn’t get on level terms with Ofori’s goal being a consolation.

Ghana will aim to bounce back from this defeat as they face Kazakhstan in their next group game on Friday.