Jordan Ayew hits brace as Black Stars boost qualification chances

Jordan Ayew enjoyed a dream return to the Ghana national team on Sunday afternoon as he struck twice in the first half of the Black Stars 2-0 victory over Ethiopia in a 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Crystal Palace striker was handed a start in Addis Ababa, joining Emmanuel Boateng in attack and he rediscovered his fine form as he found the breakthrough with just three minutes on the clock.

The 27-year-old controlled a long pass from defender Harrison Afful before finding the back of the net with a fine strike from close range.

He doubled the lead before the half-hour mark via penalty spot after Emmanuel Boateng was fouled in the box by Ethiopian goalkeeper.

The Ethiopians settled in the second half and began to push forward but were restricted to long-range efforts that almost led to a consolation goal in the dying embers of the encounter.

Black Stars, on the other hand, had a correct goal ruled out by the referee. The South African official adjudged Andre Ayew to fouled Ethiopian defender in the build-up to the goal but television replays proved otherwise.

The win boosts Black Stars qualification chances as they move to second in Group F, just a point behind leaders Kenya.