GhArticles.com Every News in Detail
Ghana’s Black Stars have failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 20 years following a 1-1 draw against Angola in Luanda on Friday. This marks a disappointing end to their qualification campaign, as the four-time African champions miss the continental tournament they last failed to attend in 2004.
Head coach Otto Addo introduced significant changes to the starting lineup, giving Nations FC defender Razak Simpson and Michael Baidoo their first starts for the Black Stars. Abdul Manaf Nurudeen was also handed the goalkeeping duties, replacing Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
Ghana began the match strongly, with Jordan Ayew delivering a moment of brilliance in the 19th minute. After Mohammed Kudus was fouled, Ayew unleashed a powerful free kick from 35 yards, leaving Angola’s goalkeeper helpless.
However, Angola soon found an opportunity to level the score after Gideon Mensah committed a foul in the penalty box. M’Bala Nzola stepped up to take the spot-kick, but debutant Abdul Manaf Nurudeen produced a stunning save to keep Ghana in the lead.
Before halftime, Michael Baidoo came close to doubling Ghana’s advantage, but his effort was blocked by the Angolan defense, and the Black Stars went into the break with a narrow 1-0 lead.
Angola returned stronger in the second half, and their persistence paid off. Substitute Zini capitalized on a lapse in Ghana’s defense, connecting with Milson’s cross to equalize.
The Black Stars continued to push for a winner, with Kudus and Ransford Yeboah coming close, but Angola’s goalkeeper denied their efforts. In the final minutes, Manaf Nurudeen once again came to Ghana’s rescue with a superb save to prevent Angola from snatching all three points.
Despite the valiant efforts, Ghana’s inability to secure a win means they cannot qualify for AFCON 2025, leaving fans and players devastated.
The Black Stars will conclude their qualification campaign on Monday, facing Niger in Accra. However, the match now holds little significance for a team accustomed to being a mainstay in Africa’s premier football tournament.
