Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) came to an end after a 1-1 draw with Angola on Friday night at the Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda.
The Black Stars, aiming to secure a crucial win in their Matchday 5 qualifier, entered the game with a strong lineup under the guidance of head coach Otto Addo. However, key goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi was notably absent, with Abdul Nurudeen Manaf stepping up between the posts, while Razak Simpson earned a starting role.
Angola, having already secured their spot at AFCON 2025, began the match on the front foot. The Palancas Negras nearly broke the deadlock in the fourth minute, but their attempt narrowly missed the target. Ghana responded quickly, earning two free-kicks in promising positions, but their execution left much to be desired.
The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when Jordan Ayew scored a stunning free-kick, giving Ghana a 1-0 lead. The Black Stars sought to build on their momentum, but their inability to finish chances hindered their efforts.
Angola had an opportunity to equalize in the 25th minute when Gideon Mensah conceded a penalty after fouling Zito Luvumbo in the box. However, Abdul Manaf stepped up heroically, saving M’Bala Nzola’s spot-kick to preserve Ghana’s advantage. Despite Angola dominating possession, Ghana went into halftime with their narrow lead intact.
The second half saw Angola intensify their attacks, forcing Ghana onto the defensive. Coach Otto Addo introduced Ebenezer Annan in place of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku to bolster the team’s efforts, but Angola’s pressure finally paid off in the 64th minute when Zini scored to level the game.
Ghana continued to push for a winner, creating several opportunities, but their lack of composure in the final third proved costly. Mohammed Kudus came close in the 76th minute, but his effort went wide. Late substitutions, including Osman Bukari and Ernest Nuamah, injected fresh energy, but Angola’s defense stood firm.
The game ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Ghana with only three points from five matches in Group F. Sitting fourth in the standings, the result officially ended the Black Stars’ quest to qualify for AFCON 2025.
Ghana will now look to finish their campaign on a positive note when they host Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday.
SOURCE: http://dew360.net
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