Both teams had equal chances to score at the start of the game, but were unable to do so because neither defensive lineup could be overpowered. Numerous attempts to score also led to numerous fouls as players from both sides continued to play aggressively to establish dominance.
Despite being quite competitive, neither team was able to score in the first half, making it rather dull. The referee indicated for 3 more minutes to be played after 45 minutes, possibly the smallest extra time added thus far in the tournament, but that again produced no results as both sides’ first halves ended scoreless.
The first 15 minutes of the second half continued much like the first had, but the real action began after 60 minutes. The first goal of the game was finally scored in the 65th minute. Salisu fouls Ronaldo crucially in the box, and the referee correctly calls it a penalty, much to the chagrin of the Ghanaian players. Ronaldo scored Portugal’s first goal, giving them a 1-0 advantage.
Ghana equalized the score 73 minutes into the match when Andre Ayew fired Kudus’ long-range pass into the Portugal goal. The scores are now even. Joao Felix scored Portugal’s second goal five minutes later by charging in, lobbing the ball over the goalkeeper, and putting the ball into the goal. After 78 minutes, Portugal is in the lead 2-1. Felix’s unexpected goal left the Ghanaians still reeling as R. Leao scored Portugal’s third goal two minutes later. After 80 minutes, Portugal has a 3-1 advantage.
Ghana has clearly begun to reorganize because they are aware of how dangerous the situation could get if nothing is done. After 89 minutes, Osman Bukari completes the necessary work. Bukari intercepts a long cross that is coming in from the left and scores a goal for his team as Ghana gets closer 3-2. The cross somehow manages to get past Danilo Pereira. The referee calls for nine minutes of added time, at which point the Ghanaians go into “do or die” mode and try to use every remaining second to even the score or gain the lead. But as the final whistle blows, ending a thrilling match, the Portuguese maintain tight control, not allowing any loose spaces. Portugal scored a narrow 3-2 victory over high-spirited Ghana.
Where other teams have failed to score a single goal in 100 minutes, this match saw 5 quick goals scored in a span of just 24 minutes. A scintillating performance that is even rare to see in a World Cup Final. Kudos to Portugal for holding their ground, and respect for Ghana for putting up a valiant fight.
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