VAR sends off Ghana midfielder Ofori in New York derby

The Ghanaian was forced to take an early shower after a studs-up challenge in midweek action. There was no joy for Ghana international Ebenezer Ofori when New York City FC hosted New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer on Wednesday.

A tireless work in midfield ended on a sour note as the 23-year-old was sent off in the 1-1 draw at Yankee Stadium.

It was his first career red card since making the step from local side New Edubiase United to Europe and now to the USA.

Bradley Wright-Phillips broke the deadlock for the visitors in Wednesday's game, stooping to head home Daniel Royer's cross.

City's predicament took a second downward dive when Eloi Amagat was brandished a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Marc Rzatkowski five minutes to half-time.

A man down, City impressively fought back to level the score through former Spain international David Villa, who ran onto Jo Inge Berget's knockdown to beat goalkeeper Luis Robles with a low shot in the 52nd minute.

Eighteen minutes to full-time, the hosts suffered another setback when Ofori, by the influence of video assistant referees, received the straight marching orders for sticking his studs into the calf of Wright-Phillips.

The result has left City third on the Eastern Conference table, one spot below Red Bulls.

Ofori is set to sit out upcoming games against Columbus Crew and New England Revolution.

His next field action will likely be for Ghana in their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Kenya on September 8, having been named in a 21-man squad for the fixture.