Ghana takes 1-0 lead over Uruguay just before half with long strike

Ghana takes 1-0 lead over Uruguay just before half

JOHANNESBURG — Sulley Muntari scored on a long-range shot just before halftime as Ghana took a 1-0 lead over Uruguay in their World Cup quarterfinal match Friday.

Muntari’s shot curved and eluded goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, who may have been partially screened on the play.

Uruguay started better, and Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingson twice saved well from shots by forward Luis Suarez in the 10th and 26th minutes.

Uruguay almost scored on an own goal by Ghana captain John Mensah off a corner in the 18th, but Kingson showed good reflexes to save.