The anticipation was building as Ghana was prepared to kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign against Angola at the iconic Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on Thursday, 5 September, 2024. This crucial encounter would set the tone for the Black Stars’ quest to secure their place in the prestigious tournament in Morocco next year. Ghana, the footballing powerhouse on the continent, would be eager to make a statement and impress their passionate fanbase. The home advantage would undoubtedly be a significant factor for the Black Stars, as the Baba Yara Stadium is known for its electric atmosphere. The Black Stars would be counting on their experienced players like Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and the rising stars of Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, amongst others to deliver a convincing performance.

Ayew bagged a hat-trick when the Black Stars beat the Central African Republic 4-3 in Kumasi in the FIFA World Cup qualifications in June, the last international window. Angola, on the other hand, would be looking to upset the odds and secure a valuable result against their more favoured opponents. The Palancas Negras have shown glimpses of their potential in the past and would be hoping to capitalize on any opportunities that come their way.

The match was expected to be a thrilling affair, with both teams vying for victory. Angola’s last visit to Kumasi saw them concede deep in stoppage-time as they lost 1-0. The outcome of this encounter could have a significant impact on the dynamics of Group F in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Sudan were 1-0 victors over Niger in the other group fixture on Wednesday at the Juba Stadium in South Sudan, taking an early lead in the group standings.

The Match

The game started with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances, with only snapshots here and there. However, inside the third minute of extra time, Ghana defender Abdul Mumin failed to clear one cross into the box, allowing Milson to pounce and tap the ball into the net.

That goal in the 93rd minute won the game for Angola, securing revenge for them after they lost to a similar late goal in Kumasi during the 2023 Afcon qualifiers. This was also the first time since February 6, 2000, that Ghana had lost a game at the Kumasi Sports Stadium, having lost to South Africa on that occasion.

The Late Goal

Before the game, the Angola coach said they had the experience to hurt the Black Stars in their backyard, and they did just that, late into the game. The substitutes from Pedro Goncalves combined to secure all three points for them. The goal was a sweet revenge for Angola, who were beaten by a last-minute winner from Antoine Semenyo in the 2023 AFCON qualifier.

Aftermath

After the full-time whistle, fans in the stadium booed the players. With this result, Sudan leads Group F with three points after beating Niger. Angola also sit on 3 points while Ghana and Niger are at the bottom of the table after the first round of matches. The Black Stars will travel to play Niger in their next group game in four days.

A Look Ahead

The Black Stars will be looking to bounce back from this disappointing loss and will need to regroup quickly for their next fixture. They will need to find a way to improve their attacking efficiency and tighten up their defense to avoid further setbacks in the qualifiers.

This result is a major blow to Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON. The team will need to show a lot of resilience and determination to turn things around in the remaining qualifiers. They will also need to learn from their mistakes and make the necessary adjustments to their game plan if they want to achieve their goal of competing in the tournament in Morocco next year.

A Look Back at the Match

The match was a tense affair, with both sides vying for control. Ghana had more possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Angola, on the other hand, was more clinical in front of goal, and their late winner was a deserved reward for their persistence.

The Black Stars will need to regroup quickly and get back to winning ways if they want to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON. The next few matches will be crucial for the team’s chances of success.