Ghana’s home-based national team, the Black Galaxies, recorded a 3-0 win over their Beninese counterparts in the first leg encounter of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.
Three goals from Hearts of Oak trio Daniel Afriyie Barnieh, Mohammed Alhassan and Gladson Awako ensured an advantage for the Black Galaxies ahead of the second leg in Cotonou.
Barnieh nearly gave Ghana the lead halfway through the first half, but his 30-yard strike was tipped off the crossbar by the Benin goalkeeper.
Barnieh struck Ghana into the lead from the penalty spot after a handball incident against their Beninese counterparts.
The Black Galaxies were denied a second goal after the referee made a strange call to disallow Jonah Attuquaye’s well-taken strike.
The Beninese ended the first half the better side with a few attacking strides, but the Black Galaxies defence held on to their lead going into recess.
The Black Galaxies started the second half on the front foot as they searched for the cushion goal and deservedly got it through Mohammed Alhassan, who pounced on a loose ball and struck the ball into the lead.
Ghana was in cruise control of the game, with Benin not posing any threat in the final third.
Gladson Awako made it three for the Black Galaxies with a beauty inside the penalty box as they head into the second leg with a big advantage.
