The Black Stars of Ghana’s remarkable 24-year unbeaten streak at the Baba Yara Stadium came to a disappointing end as Angola handed them a 1-0 defeat in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Head Coach Otto Addo stuck with Lawrence Ati Zigi in posts ahead of Joseph Wollacott, with Alidu Seidu Tariq Lamptey, Mohammed Salisu and Abdul Mumin forming the defensive shape.
The team’s Captain and Arsenal Star Thomas Partey partnered with Elisha Owusu in midfield while Jordan Ayew also maintained his place in the line-up but was shifted to the left wing.
Abdul Fatawu Issahaku who plays with Jordan Ayew at Leicester also operated on the other flank.
West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus was tasked with playing behind the in-form Antoine Semenyo, who led the line.
AFC Bounemouth forward Antoine Semenyo made an early attacking run , but his cross failed to connect with a Ghanaian teammate.
However,Angola proved a tough side,with attackers Mabululu, Gelson Dala, and Rayo Vallecano’s Randy Nteka also struggling to convert their chances.
After recess, Fatawu Issahaku won a free kick that Kudus delivered with precision, only for Angola’s goalkeeper, Neblu, to pull off an outstanding save.
Ghana controlled possession and launched multiple attacks, but all efforts to find the net proved futile.
The decisive moment in the game came in the 93rd minute when Angola’s substitute Felicio Joao Milson capitalized on a close-range opportunity to score the only goal of the match.
For the first time in 24 years – when Ghana lost to South Africa in the AFCON – the Black Stars have lost a game at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium
Ghana will now turn all attention to the game against Niger on Monday.
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Story by Asack Pius|univers.ug.edu.gh
