Goals from Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan proved to be the difference as Japan took control and punished Ghana’s lapses.
Japan set the tone early, dominating possession and gradually pulling Ghana out of their structure. The opening goal came when Minamino finished calmly after he was played through on goal by Kaishu Sano.
Ghana offered very little in the first half, with no shots on target, as their attacking threats were stifled by a disciplined Japanese defence.
In the second half, the Black Stars managed to register only two shots on target, from Kamaldeen Sulemana and substitute Prince Kwabena Adu, but neither troubled Japan’s goalkeeper enough to alter the momentum.
The second Japanese goal arrived around the hour mark when Doan showed lovely, quick feet to finish after a well-worked Japanese move, beating Joseph Anang at his near post.
Ghana's evening was further dented by the injury to midfielder Abu Francis, who had to be stretchered off in the second half after a horrific leg injury.
Despite some energy and fresh legs introduced by coach Otto Addo, the Black Stars were unable to build sustained attacks or keep possession when required. Japan’s sharper transitions and control in key phases were decisive.
Ghana will now turn their focus to their next friendly against South Korea on Tuesday, where they will look to bounce back and make a stronger impression.
