Budweiser Man of the Match: Michael ESSIEN (GHA)

17 June 2006

Ghana midfielder Michael Essien won the Budweiser Man of the Match award for a complete performance, according to TSG member Kalusha Bwalya.

The Chelsea midfielder acted as a driving force for the Black Stars in their 2-0 win over the Czech Republic. Together with Stephen Appiah in midfield, he helped the African side to dominate the match.

Ghana’s high-tempo football in Cologne was a joy to watch and Essien was an influential figure, prompting some of their best moves.

“It was extremely difficult to make this decision, because the entire Ghana team played very well,” said Bwalya.

“The goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and strikers all did a great job. It was a tremendous team performance.

“However, it was the number eight, Michael Essien who was the pick of the players. He helped the defence when required and looked very strong going forward.”