Black Stars coach Otto Addo admits Ghana second best in Japan defeat

Ghana head coach Otto Addo admitted his side were second best in their 2-0 defeat to Japan in the Kirin Challenge Cup on Friday, praising the hosts while pointing out the costly mistakes that shaped the result.

Speaking after the match in Toyota, Addo acknowledged Japan’s quality and sharpness in transition. "So, first of all, congratulations to Japan. Good team, played well," he said. "We knew that they were very good in transitions, so it was important for us not to lose the ball while we were building up. The counter-pressing was very good."

Addo expressed frustration at Ghana’s error that led to the opening goal. "It annoys me a little bit that we made this mistake to lose the ball in the build-up, and we knew they are very fast. Once they win the ball, the strikers are very fast in executing and making good runs."

Japan went ahead through Takumi Minamino and later doubled their lead through Ritsu Doan. Addo admitted the result reflected the balance of play. "We have to say it was deserved. In all, they had more shots than we had. Ball possession was almost equal, but they had more shots on goal. So, in all, it was a deserved win."

Ghana will continue their World Cup preparations with a friendly against South Korea on Tuesday.