Ghana suffered a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in an international friendly in Puebla on Friday as both nations continued preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The encounter provided Black Stars coach with another opportunity to assess his squad and give several players the chance to impress ahead of the announcement of Ghana’s final World Cup squad.
Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare retained his place in the starting lineup, protected by defenders Jan Kwasi Gyamerah, Nathaniel Adjei, Oscar Oppong and Terry Yegbe.
Captain Majeed Ashimeru started in midfield alongside Emmanuel Agyei, Ibrahim Osman and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, while Daniel Agyei partnered Felix Afena-Gyan in attack.
Mexico made a bright start and took the lead inside the opening two minutes through Brian Gutiérrez.
Ghana gradually settled into the game afterwards, but the hosts remained composed in possession and carried their one-goal advantage into halftime.
The home side doubled their lead in the 54th minute when Guillermo Martínez found the back of the net to put Mexico firmly in control.
Coach Ofei responded with a series of substitutions in the second half as he sought to inject energy into the side.
Prince Amoako, Jerry Afriyie and Razak Simpson replaced Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Daniel Agyei and Felix Afena-Gyan in the 66th minute, while Abdul Aziz Issah, Joseph Opoku, Salim Adams and Solomon Agbasi were later introduced.
The changes improved Ghana’s intensity in the closing stages, but Mexico held on comfortably to secure the victory.
Despite the defeat, the match served as another important test for the Black Stars as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Ghana will now turn attention to their next international friendly against Wales in Cardiff on June 2, 2026.
Jan Gyamera and Mateo Chavaz battle for the ball