Appiah says final goodbye to football as testimonial game ends in a draw

Former Ghana skipper Stephen Appiah said a final goodbye to football fans on  Saturday as he celebrated his testimonial match with a 2-2 draw between the Black Stars and Friends of Appiah at the Accra Stadium.

The ex Ghana midfielder broke the deadlock in the second half when he curled in a free kick before current Black Stars skipper Asamoah Gyan brought the game back on level terms.

Former striker Baffour then took Appiah XI ahead again while Ben Acheampong scored to see the game end 2-2 at full time.

The game which was played in a very entertaining atmosphere saw Ghana's two former Presidents Jerry Rawlings and John Kufour in attendance to bid a final farewell to Appiah 

President John Mahama also graced the occasion and took the ceremonial kick off before the testimonial game commenced.

Former African best footballers Samuel Eto'o and Emmanuel Adebayor as well as various former playing mates of Appiah featured in his select side that faced the Black Stars.

Stephen "Tornado" Appiah who led Ghana to its maiden World Cup appearance in 2006 and to the 2010 edition, had 67 caps and scored 14 international goals.

He remains one of the few Ghanaian players who have played for all national teams and also played for several club sides including Juventus, Udinese, Brescia, Parma and Cesena and Fenerbache.