It is the eighth Nations Cup final for both Egypt and Ghana, with Ghana winning four and Egypt winning a record seven times. Their captain Ahmed Hassan became the first player to win four Nations Cup finals. Both Egypt also set another record by becoming the first country to win it three times in a row all under coach Hassan Shehata who has never lost a match in the Nations Cup. His two successes in 2006 and 2008 are matched only by CK Gyamfi, coach of Ghana’s winning teams in 1963 and 1965.

Egypt won the first edition of the continental championship, hosted by the Sudan in 1957. She won it again in 1959, 1963, 2006, 2008 and 2010. Ghana on the other hand won it in 1965, 1978, 1982 and 1986.

Coach Milovan Rajevic of Ghana, already missing most of his regular first XI due to injury of regular captain Stephen Appiah, Chelsea star Michael Essien, John Pantsil, Laryea Kingston, John Mensah and Sulley Muntari due to disciplinary action, has already achieved more than anyone expected with a team which includes 12 Nations Cup debutants and eight members from the team that won the FIFA U-20 World Cup last year.

FIFA President, Sepp Blatter in his welcome address at the 32nd Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football in Luanda on Friday described the Black Stars' (nickname for Ghana's male football team) efficient performance at the Nations Cup as an inspirational story after Ghana beat arch rivals Nigeria to qualify for the finals. However the Black Stars could not find the much needed inspiration to beat the Pharoahs of Egypt.

Speaking to some football fans before kickoff earlier on Sunday, they admitted that the Egyptians were the better side. That notwithstanding, many believed that Ghana will win by a lone goal, with Asamoah Gyan being scorer. Many more said it will take divine intervention. As a result prayers were offered nationwide for the team.

Soccer fans interviewed after the game gave credit to the coach and the team for making Ghana proud. Some said Ghana had a future. Others added that Ghana will excel at World Cup come July if this team will be maintained.

Considering the fact that Christians, Muslims and Traditionalists alike prayed for God to intervene, and the fact that Ghana lost the match, i am tempted to ask the question that "Did God let Ghana down?" Your guess is as good as mine.