By: Nana Kwame Bediako
The Black Stars of Ghana are set to embark on their 2025 AFCON qualification journey on Thursday, September 5, 2024, with a highly anticipated match against Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. The game will kick off at exactly 4 p.m. This match marks the beginning of Ghana’s quest to secure an AFCON qualification, and their first test will be against the formidable Palancas Negras of Angola.
Angola’s Current Form and Goal-Scoring Prowess
Angola enters this match with an impressive run of form, having played 15 matches recently, out of which they won 9, lost 2, and drew 4. They have been particularly effective in front of goal, scoring 27 times while conceding 10. Angola’s recent performances include a notable showing at the Africa Cup of Nations, where they managed three victories and suffered only one loss to the finalists, Nigeria. This run saw them scoring an average of 1.8 goals per game, with nine goals in five matches.
Their momentum didn’t halt after the AFCON, as they went on to win their last four matches, including a dominant 5-0 victory against Namibia to clinch the COSAFA Cup. This should alert the Ghanaian defense to the fact that Angola is not just in good form but is also riding a wave of confidence.
Player to Watch: Mabululu
At the heart of Angola’s attack is the lethal forward Mabululu. He has been a prolific scorer for both his club and country, netting 41 goals in 83 games. Last season, he continued his impressive form by scoring 16 goals for Al Ittihad Alexandria Club, earning him the 2023/24 Egyptian Premier League Golden Boot. Mabululu’s knack for finding the back of the net makes him a significant threat that Ghana must neutralise.
Exploiting Angola’s Weaknesses
While Angola’s offensive capabilities are noteworthy, their defensive vulnerabilities provide a potential avenue for Ghana to exploit. Despite their goal-scoring prowess, Angola has a tendency to leak goals at the back. This defensive fragility could be the key to Ghana’s strategy. By applying sustained pressure and capitalising on defensive lapses, the Black Stars could tilt the balance in their favour.
Strategic Insights for Ghana
1. Target Angola’s Defense: Given Angola’s tendency to concede goals, Ghana should adopt an aggressive approach, especially in the opening stages of the match. Quick, incisive attacks could catch the Angolan defense off-guard.
2. Neutralise Mabululu: Employing a tight marking strategy on Mabululu could significantly reduce his impact on the game. Ghana’s defenders must be vigilant and ensure that Mabululu is given little room to operate.
3. Midfield Dominance: Controlling the midfield will be crucial. By dominating this area, Ghana can dictate the pace of the game and limit Angola’s ability to build their attacks.
4. Set Pieces: Angola’s defensive weaknesses could be further exploited through set pieces. Ghana should look to make the most of corners and free-kicks, areas where defensive lapses are more likely to occur.
