Black Loopers win 3-2 against Ivory Coast in ITTF Africa Regional Championship Opener

Ghana’s trio of Bernard Joe Sam, Felix Lartey and Samuel Akayade put up a splendid performance in front of home supporters as they defeat Ivory Coast 3-2 in a fiercely fought encounter.

This cagey encounter saw the final match ending 3-2 in favour of Army Officer, Samuel Akayade who was stretched to the limit by his opponent Kouassi Ange-Aime of Ivory Coast. An excited Akayade could not hide his joy for the sweet victory as he made amends for an earlier loss.

The match started on a slow pace for Ghana as Ivory Coast took an early 1-0 lead with Kizito Oba beating Samuel Akayade in the opener. USA based Felix Lartey pulled parity for Ghana when he won 3-1 against Kouassi Ange-Aime.
Captain of the team, Bernard Joe Sam extended Ghana’s lead to 2-1 by winning against Oba Don Ange Cedric, with a closely fought victory.
The Ivorians drew level when Kizito Oba beat Felix Lartey.

With the match tied at 2-2 and the spectators sitting on tenterhooks, Samuel Akayade carried the team on his shoulders and brilliantly won the decider, thus granting Team Ghana her first victory of the competition.

The Black Loopers will be playing against Liberia in the next match.

Pictures credit:Lord Kinful