Keep on Doing That Thomas Partey : In a very long while Thomas Partey produced a big game for the Black Stars of Ghana in Thursday’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualification victory against Angola in Kumasi.
The Babayara sports stadium was packed to the rafters and when everyone thought the near 40 000 fans were going to leave the venue disappointed , Antoine Semenyo smashed home the winner , a heartbreaking goal in the 94th minute.
Semenyo made a big impact after replacing Inaki Williams in the 68th minute but another outstanding Black Stars player was Thomas Partey who captained the Black Stars as Andre Ayew was absent.
Ghana fans are used to the Atletico Madrid and Arsenal standard of Partey and so when he plays for the Black Stars , they expect him to repeat that same world class form.
When you are compared to great midfielders such as Casemiro , Rodri and N’Golo Kante you are mandated to live up to that expectation anywhere you play. In recent Ghana matches , Partey saw a reduction in form. You can mention the last two major tournaments ; the 2022 AFCON in Cameroon and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
However against Angola on Thursday , Thomas Partey was the real Thomas Partey that we all know. Excellent passes , plenty through balls and most importantly leadership.
His 8th minute run from his midfield position created the first biggest attacking action of the match but Williams , the final beneficiary of that run saw his effort dealt with by the Angolan defence.
The Arsenal man was simply outstanding.
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