Jordan Ayew’s penalty proved to be the difference as Ghana labored to a 1-0 victory away to São Tomé in 2021 African Cup of Nations qualifier on Monday.

The four-time African champions struggled to get their passing game going in the opening minutes due to the regretful nature of the pitch at the National stadium.

The first real chance fell to Jordan after the São Tomé goalkeeper gifted the Crystal palace striker the ball, he squared it to Samuel Owusu but his shot failed to find the back of the net.

Emmanuel Boateng had a penalty appeal waved on in the 18th minute after he was brought in the box, replays suggested the China-based forward had a good case.

Two minutes later, Gideon Mensah sent in a teasing cross which was connected by Andre Ayew but his header flew just wide.

The Ghana skipper tried his luck again after a foul on Jordan Ayew but the resulting kick went over the crossbar.

The visitors kept probing for the opener but the first half petered out to a goalless draw.

After the recess, Partey failed to score with a header from point blank range after another delightful cross by Gideon Mensah.

In the 47th minute, Ghana was awarded a penalty for a silly foul on Emmanuel Boateng by goalkeeper Tavinho.

Jordan Ayew stepped up and converted expertly from the spot to score the only goal of the match.

The crucial win means that Ghana are firmly in control of Group C after two rounds of matches with 6 points, South Africa and Sudan have 3 points each while São Tomé remain bottom with 0 points.