Chaos erupted in the AFCON encounter between Gabon and Ghana as Ghanaian striker Benjamin Tetteh was awarded a red card following a tumultuous scuffle that took place after a 1-1 draw between the two sides. Ghana’s last 16 chances took a beating as they needed a win in the crucial game to keep themselves in realistic contention.
The disagreement arose after Gabon and Clermont midfielder Jim Allevinah scored a dramatic equaliser in the dying embers to cancel out Andre Ayew’s goal in the 18th minute, also putting a dent in their bid for a spot in the Round of 16.
The goal led to some disagreement and argument amongst the players, but things got uncivilised very quickly, as a brawl broke out at the end of the game, making for an ugly spat between the two sides.
The game continued amidst some arguments between the players, but the Ghanaians were visibly incensed as referee Lahlou Benbraham blew the final whistle, unleashing shambolic scenes among the players, who broke all rules of civility. Ghana’s substitute striker escalated things as he took a swing at Gabonese striker Boupendza.
Tetteh, who had barely come on in the 91st minute, then went on to have a physical confrontation with Ghanaian midfielder Bigoyo Poko before making his way into the tunnel as he hoped to avoid punishment.
Tetteh’s plan did not work, as a remarkable use of VAR post, the match revealed his unruly behaviour, and was called on to the pitch to be shown the red card. Referee Lahlou Benbraham refused to leave the pitch until the matter was officially closed and ordered Ghana midfielder and Arsenal ace Thomas Partey to “send No.25” so that he could show him the red card.
The centre-forward, however, did not return to the pitch, for which he will be liable to face disciplinary action. The referee then indicated that the Tetteh had indeed been shown the red card, although the player was not present on the pitch at the time.
