Atsu haunted by 2015 AFCON final defeat to Ivory Coast

Christian Atsu has revealed that he is still haunted by the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations finals defeat to Ivory Coast.

The Black Stars had managed to exceed all expectations by reaching the final where they outplayed their West African counterparts.

Ghana had the better chances in regulation time, hitting the woodwork twice with Christian Atsu‘s 25-yard shot and André Ayew’s effort from a tight angle.

It ended 0-0 after 120 minutes and the match inevitably went to penalties.

The Black Stars blew a two-goal lead in the penalty shootouts to miss another unique opportunity of ending an over three-decade wait for an African title.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with FootballMadeInGhana.com, the Newcastle winger recounted what transpired during the shootout.

“It was my worst feeling ever, I felt that we had already won the 2015 AFCON when we had a two goal lead in the shootout. I thought it was impossible for us professionals players not to get the job done at that point. So I was shocked when we bottled it”

Atsu was instrumental for Ghana during the 2015 edition, he won the Player of the Tournament and Goal of the Tournament award.