Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has reflected on Luis Suarez’s infamous handball in the 2010 World Cup quarterfinal between Ghana and Uruguay.
Gyan believes Suarez was just doing what he had to for his country.
“For me, as a footballer, I understand. He did what he had to do to save his country. He cheated, yes, but he became a hero,” Gyan said in an interview. The missed penalty still lingers – Gyan scored 20 penalties in training the day before but couldn’t finish the job against Uruguay.
“That is what hurts the most. It’s not about Suarez anymore; it’s about the fact that I didn’t finish the job. It’s something I will live with for the rest of my life,” Gyan added with a mix of humor and regret.
Gyan was the Ghanaian player who took the penalty that Suarez blocked with his hand, and Uruguay went on to win the tie in the shootout. While some blamed Suarez for the unsportsmanlike act, Gyan’s take is refreshingly pragmatic.
“As players, we do what it takes to win. I respect him for that. I just wish I’d done better,” Gyan said. The match is still a hot topic in Ghana.