The Black Stars of Ghana are in serious danger of missing out on the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time since 2004, following a 2-0 away defeat to Sudan in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Second-half struggles sink Ghana
Two second-half goals from Sudan’s Ahmed Al-Tash and Mohamed Abdel Rahman secured all three points for the home side, leaving Ghana’s qualification hopes in jeopardy.
Ghana’s third-place position in Group E, with only two points, puts them in a precarious spot behind Sudan, who are second with seven points.
Angola leads the group with nine points, while Niger sits at the bottom with one.
Impressive Sudan
Sudan’s Falcons dominated the first half, with Ghana struggling to keep them at bay.
Despite several crucial saves by Ghanaian goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, the Black Stars couldn’t maintain their defensive composure in the second half.
In the 62nd minute, Ahmed Al-Tash capitalized on a defensive error by Gideon Mensah to give Sudan the lead.
Just three minutes later, Mohamed Abdel Rahman doubled Sudan’s advantage after another poor defensive effort, this time from Salisu Mohammed.
Ghana’s attempt to mount a comeback fell short, as they couldn’t even secure a consolation goal.
Pressure mounts on Otto Addo
This defeat leaves Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, under immense pressure ahead of the remaining two qualifiers in November.
Ghana will need to secure victories against Angola and Niger while hoping for favorable results elsewhere if they are to salvage their qualification campaign.
Dire consequences for Ghana
Despite having 57.3% of possession, Ghana managed only one shot on target out of seven attempts, compared to Sudan’s 11 shots, five of which were on target.
This disappointing result is a harsh reflection of the Black Stars’ struggles.
The only time Ghana failed to qualify for AFCON in the last 16 tournaments was in 2004, and this result puts them on the brink of a repeat.
Ghana will travel to Angola on November 11 before concluding their qualifying campaign at home against Niger on November 19. To have any chance, Sudan must lose both of their remaining matches against Niger and Angola.
