Ghana eliminated from 2025 AFCON

Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco were dashed following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Angola on Friday.

Despite a brilliant free-kick from Jordan Ayew giving the Black Stars an early lead, Angola’s dominance in the match ultimately ended Ghana’s qualification hopes.

Ayew’s stunning free-kick in the 18th minute dipped past Angola’s goalkeeper, providing Ghana with a crucial lead after a series of lackluster performances in previous matches. Ghana defended well, with goalkeeper Manaf Nurudeen making a vital penalty save to maintain the advantage at halftime.

However, Angola’s relentless pressure in the second half paid off. Substitute Zini was left unmarked in the box and headed in the equalizer in the 63rd minute, sealing Ghana’s fate.

This result means Ghana will miss the AFCON for the first time since 2004. Angola secured their qualification, and Sudan remains in contention, needing just a point in their final game to qualify.

In his post-match comments, Ghana coach Otto Addo acknowledged Angola’s superior performance, saying, “They [Angola] didn’t have anything to lose today; you could see they played freely, while we were under more pressure. They pressed us well and contained us in our half. We lacked intensity, and it wasn’t good enough from our side.”

Addo also emphasized the importance of winning home games in such tournaments, stating, “You have to win your home games; very, very important. If you don’t, it becomes very difficult to win away because every nation is strong at home.”

With no chance of progressing, Ghana’s campaign ends on a sour note, leaving many questions about the team’s future performance in international competitions.

In another development, Jordan Ayew, Gideon Mensah, Alidu Seidu and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku have been ruled out of the Niger game due to injuries.

Alidu Seidu and Gideon Mensah who had to pass a late fitness test for the Angola game, have been ruled out after further post-game medical assessment revealed findings that make them unfit for selection.

Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku sustained injuries during the Angola match. Although Ayew completed the game, MRI scans in Accra revealed significant issues with his knee. Issahaku was substituted in the first half due to his injury.