Positive side must transcend Stars defeat - Amoah

Accra, Feb 8, GNA - Osei Bonsu Amoah, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Sports has encouraged Ghanaians to let the positive achievements of Ghana as host of the Nations Cup transcend and console them on the defeat of the Black Stars.

Ghana's quest for a fifth equaling Nations Cup record was punctured by Cameroon in their semi- final meeting on Thursday but the Deputy Minister says there are enough positives to encourage Ghanaians. Mr Amoah said the quality of the championship that the country has organized must give all Ghanaians a reason to look into the future with hope.

The Deputy Minister said the eminence of services, infrastructure and intangibles Ghana has offered the world in the biennial championship must be enough to elate everyone.

He told the GNA Sports that Ghana had managed to 'pull it off' as worthy organizers for the continental showpiece with the lasting legacies as evidence for all to see.

"We must be proud of the hard work we have all put into the successful organization of the competition even though the Black Stars could not lift the trophy to complete the dream."

He enumerated the legacies to include newly constructed and refurbished stadiums and training pitches among other things and said they would go a long way to develop sports in the country. Mr Amoah underscored the need for Ghanaians to strive to build on the positives such as the extra international recognition gained and the bond of unity during the three-week fiesta.