Alidu marks Black Stars debut in 4-1 defeat to Japan

Clermont Foot defender Alidu Seidu on Friday marked his debut for Ghana’s senior national team, Black Stars as they lost 4-1 to Japan in the Kirin Cup semi-final played in Kobe.

Seidu played full time in his first match for the Stars having missed a chance in the previous three matches played under Coach Otto Addo

But it was the Japanese who made mincemeat out of the Black Stars, thrashing Ghana by 4-1.

Japan got goals from Miki Yamane, Kaoru Mitoma, Takefusa Kubo, and Daizen Maeda. Jordan Ayew scored for Ghana to level in the 44th before Mitoma scored in first-half stoppage time.

Black Stars went into the game missing several starters due to ailment and personal issues as coach Otto Addo fielded a weaker side against the Blue Samurai.

Japan got off to a great start with Yamane Miki netting the opener on 29 minutes following an intricate passing move by the Asians.

Crystal Palace star Jordan Ayew levelled in the 44th after firing right at the edge of the box, but a momentary lapse in concentration saw Japan reclaim the lead before the break.

Nitoma Kaoru’s cross evaded everyone to beat goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi.

After the break Real Mallorca star Takefusa Kubo connected from a cross to give Japan a two-goal lead before Daizen Maeda sealed victory with eight minutes left.

Ghana will face Chile in the third-place playoff after the South Americans were beaten 2-0 by Tunisia earlier in the day.