By: Nana Kwame Bediako
The Black Stars of Ghana have officially missed out on a ticket to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco after a tense 1-1 draw against Angola in Luanda.
This marks the first time since 2024 that the four-time champions of Africa will not be participating in the prestigious tournament, raising questions about the future of Ghanaian football.
The match began with a promising start for the Black Stars, who showcased their determination early on. Within the first ten minutes, Ghana’s players were already making their presence felt on the pitch. The excitement peaked in the 18th minute when Jordan Ayew delivered a stunning free kick, putting Ghana ahead with a spectacular goal that had fans on their feet. The early lead seemed to set the tone for a potential victory.
However, the tide turned in the 25th minute when Angola was awarded a penalty, putting Ghana’s defence to the test. In a moment of brilliance, goalkeeper Abdul Manaf Nurudeen stepped up to deny Angola’s attempt from the spot, making a fantastic save that kept Ghana in the lead. As the first half came to a close, the Black Stars held onto their 1:0 advantage, buoyed by Ayew’s goal and Nurudeen’s heroics.
The second half, however, proved to be a different story. In the 64th minute, Angola found the equaliser, leveling the match at 1-1. This goal shifted the momentum, and despite Ghana’s efforts to regain control, they struggled to find the back of the net again. The draw ultimately sealed their fate, leaving the Black Stars to reflect on what could have been a crucial victory.
As the dust settles on this disappointing outcome, the future of the Black Stars is now under scrutiny. Fans are left wondering about the implications of this missed opportunity and what it means for the team’s development moving forward. The absence of Ghana in the upcoming AFCON will undoubtedly be felt as the nation seeks to rebuild and regain its status as a powerhouse in African football.