Many fans responded with derision when the Ghana Football Association announced Gabon as the Stars’ opponent, but Ghana found them difficult to break on Tuesday.

After the game, two of Ghana’s players assessed the game. Andre Ayew, who was on for the entire game, said the game was a good test ahead of next January’s African Cup of Nations. "This was a great game and I think it was a good preparation for the African Cup. Gabon were not easy opponents but we got the win and that is important."

Serbia-based defender Lee Addy also was grateful for the support of the fans who’d braved the pre-winter chill to support the team throughout the hard-fought game. "We are thankful to the fans for coming and staying with us. We are determined to win this for Ghana."

Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu got Ghana’s first goal in the first half through a penalty. He stepped up to beat Didier Ovono following a foul on Massawudu Alhassan in Gabon’s vital area. "The Gabonese played a game which surprised me and I now have a lot of respect for them."

Norway-based Mohamed Abu, who also got a run out was optimistic of the team's chances in the coming tournament. "Gabon proved that they are tough opponents and although sometimes they were a bit rough it's good for us.

"People underestimated them but we all saw how they played. They were fast and strong and organized. More of such teams to help us prepare would help us do well next January," the Stromgodset player said.

General team captain John Mensah was at the Stade Municipal and despite being unable to play, he was happy with the win. “A win is always good for the boys because it builds morale. And we need that a lot if we are going to do well in the African Cup next year.”

The Black Stars management would be returning to Ghana on Wednesday.

Ghana started vs Gabon: Adam Kwarasey, Samuel Inkoom, Masawudu Alhassan, Lee Addy, Isaac Vorsah, Anthony Annan, Andre Ayew, Agyeman Badu, Prince Tagoe, Kwadwo Asamoah, Sulley Muntari

Bench: Ernest Sowah, Daniel Opare, Sumaila Rashid, Charles Takyi, Abu Mohammed, Derek Boateng, Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, Derek Asamoah, Jeffrey Schulpp, Daniel Agyei