Wales 1-1 Ghana: Lewis Koumas on target as Black Stars denied win in final pre-World Cup friendly

Wales and Ghana played to a 1-1 draw in a final pre-World Cup friendly at a 33,000-capacity stadium, with attendance around a third of capacity due to lingering disappointment from Wales’ March playoff heartbreak. Ghana took the lead in the 66th minute when Caleb Yirenkyi converted from close range after the ball struck a post, sparking celebrations from the Ghanaian contingent. Wales equalized in the third minute of stoppage time when substitute Lewis Koumas scored from a Neco Williams cross, securing a point for manager Craig Bellamy’s side. The match marked the 150th anniversary of the Football Association of Wales, formed in 1876, with Wales wearing a retro red and white kit. It was also Wales’ first home game against an African opponent. Bellamy fielded his strongest available lineup without injured players Ben Davies and Harry Wilson, while Ghana named Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo on the bench and former Swansea striker Jordan Ayew as captain. Early in the game, Ghana’s Jonas Adjetey created chances, while Wales’ Daniel James hit the post twice after Bellamy highlighted their poor June record—Wales had lost seven of their last 11 matches. Ghana’s Thomas Partey was cautioned for a foul on Wales’ David Brooks and later substituted at halftime for a cynical challenge. Wales goalkeeper Joe Rodon made key saves, including a smothered attempt by Ayew, before Ghana’s Neco Williams tumbled in the box, though referee Oscar Johnson denied a penalty. Ghana nearly extended their lead after halftime, with Ernest Nuamah forcing Rodon into a diving save before Yirenkyi scored. Koumas, who had just celebrated promotion to the Premier League with Hull City, joined his father Jason as an international goalscorer with his equalizing strike. The match ended as a tense draw, with Wales securing a point in their final preparation before the World Cup.