Sellas Tetteh eyeing Ghana improvement at WC

The Black Satellites coach despite their sloppy start at this year’s Fifa U20 World Cup says they will make amends in their next two group games against Argentina and Panama

After fighting hard to earn a 1-1 draw in their opening U20 World Cup Group B game against Austria in New Zealand, Ghana coach Sellas Tetteh wants to see an immediate improvement in his side's play.

“Everything is now open in our group after the first two games both ended in draws, next up is a tricky match against Argentina, which we can hopefully win,” he said at the post-match press conference.

In the other Group B fixture, Panama held Argentina to a 2-2 draw, meaning that all four teams in the group are on one point after the first round of matches.

Coach Tetteh is noted for either drawing or losing his first game at major competitions since taking over the team in 2009.

This year’s competition was no exception as his side came from a goal down to draw level with a buoyant Austrian side.

“It was a very difficult game for us, but the first match in a tournament is always tough and it takes a while to find your rhythm,” he added

“Congratulations to Austria for a really strong performance; it was clear that this team has plenty of quality.

“It didn’t surprise me as every side that qualifies for a World Cup has earned the right to be here."

Austria coach Andreas Heraf noted his side was just unlucky not to have nicked all three points following what he describes as a wonderful display from his team.

“We were well prepared, we watched Ghana frequently beforehand and carefully analysed their play, which meant we knew almost everything about our opponents,” he said after game

“The team followed our game plan perfectly and we were closer to making it 2-0 or 3-0 than to Ghana scoring the equaliser.

“It was almost an unbelievable performance against a side who have come here with the aim of becoming world champions," he continued.

“My lads are a little downhearted in the dressing room, which is madness – but it shows the great ambition within the team.”

Ghana will next play Argentina while Austria takes on Panama on Tuesday.