Asamoah Gyan, the former striker for Ghana, expressed his desire to go back in time and atone for his penalty that caused the Black Stars to lose to Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals.
Gyan had an outstanding career for the Ghanaian Black Stars, finishing as Africa’s best scorer in World Cup history with six goals in 11 appearances over three tournaments. But the majority of football fans, particularly those from Ghana, still remember him despite his accomplishments.
After Luis Suarez of Uruguay committed a last-minute handball in the penalty area, the former Sunderland striker had a chance to make history by leading Ghana to the World Cup semifinals in South Africa in 2010. However, the crossbar saved his attempt, even though he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way.
Ghana ultimately lost the subsequent penalty shootout and lost out on a semifinal spot when it was right there in front of them.
Gyan recalled the traumatic event, as quoted by Eurofoot: “‘’Till today, any time I’m alone, it still huants me,” There are moments when I want the world to return in order for me to make amends. However, I am aware that this will follow me for the rest of my life. Since there is nothing I can do about it, I accept it. I went there to defend my nation, but since I understand how others feel, I can accept if I turn out to be the villain.
Asamoah Gyan declared, “It was a disaster,” describing his experience with the incident’s aftermath. It was crazy. I couldn’t sleep the whole night until morning. All I was telling myself was to get another chance because I knew I could redeem myself, even if it was not football or something else. But even if I don’t, my kids will do it one day’’, he added.
With 51 goals in 109 appearances for the Black Stars, Gyan announced his retirement in June 2023 at the age of 37, capping 20 years of devoted service to both the club and the country.
Source: 1Familyradio