Former Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan has revealed he harbours no ill feelings toward Luis Suárez, reflecting on their dramatic encounter during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Gyan was at the centre of one of the tournament’s most memorable moments during Ghana’s quarterfinal clash with Uruguay national football team. With the match tied 1-1 in regulation time, Suárez deliberately used his hands to block a goal-bound header from Dominic Adiyiah, earning a red card and conceding a penalty.
Gyan stepped up to take the spot-kick but saw his effort strike the crossbar, sending the game into extra time before Ghana eventually lost 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The defeat dashed the hopes of the Ghana national football team of becoming the first African side to reach the World Cup semifinals.
Speaking in an interview with Rio Ferdinand, Gyan said he understands why Suárez made the decision.
“I always say I would have done the same thing that Luis Suarez did because he did that to save his nation,” he said.
“Seeing the ball going into your net at that crucial moment, he just did that to save his nation, but then I have forgiven him,” he added.
Ghana’s campaign at the 2010 tournament was historic, as the team progressed from a group that included Serbia national football team, Australia national football team, and Germany national football team. The Black Stars then defeated the United States men’s national soccer team 2-1 after extra time in the Round of 16.
This summer, the Black Stars will return to the World Cup stage when the 2026 FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama national football team, England national football team, and Croatia national football team. The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England on June 23, and conclude the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
After group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 tournaments, Ghana will be aiming for a stronger performance in North America.
Source: adomonline.com
