Facing Harry Kane is normal - Benjamin Asare after display against England

Black Stars goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare has expressed gratitude to God, Ghanaians, and his supporters after delivering a standout performance in Ghana's goalless draw against England at the FIFA World Cup.

The Hearts of Oak shot-stopper, who was making his first-ever World Cup start, played a crucial role in helping Ghana secure a valuable point against one of the tournament favourites.

Speaking after the match, Asare described the opportunity to start on football's biggest stage as a proud moment but insisted he was simply doing his job.

"I thank Almighty God and all the Ghanaian people, my fans and the Shatta Movement. Everyone who loves and supports me, I pray that everything will be successful for them," he said.

Despite the magnitude of the occasion, the goalkeeper remained remarkably calm about his debut on the World Cup stage.

"It's normal. It's normal, yeah," he said when asked how it felt to start his first World Cup match.

Asare also downplayed the challenge of facing England captain Harry Kane, who entered the tournament as one of Europe's most prolific goalscorers.

Asare joins Richard Kingson as only Ghana goalkeepers with two World Cup clean sheets

"Facing Harry Kane is normal. Even the top goalkeepers concede goals to top strikers. I always want to prove myself and show people that this is my job and I can do it," he stated.

On a controversial penalty appeal involving teammate Prince, Asare refused to be drawn into discussions about the referee's decision.

"In the field of play, we don't have anything to say. We must stay concentrated and continue with the match," he explained.

Reflecting on the team's reaction after the game, Asare revealed that his teammates and coaches were not surprised by his performance.

"Most of them know me. They know that I can do it. I thank Almighty God that He answered my prayers and everything has been successful," he added.



PAH/JE