Niger clinched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ghana in their final Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier, but the result brought little joy as neither team managed to secure a spot in next year’s tournament in Morocco.
The match, played with high intensity, saw Niger take an early lead in the 22nd minute.
Badamassi rose above Ghana’s defense to meet a well-executed corner kick, heading the ball into the net to give his side the advantage.
The Black Stars struggled to find their footing throughout the first half, with Niger’s resolute defense ensuring they carried a 1-0 lead into the break.
Ghana emerged from halftime with renewed vigor, determined to overturn the deficit.
Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Ernest Nuamah delivered a perfectly timed pass into the penalty area, allowing Jeremiah Afriyie to finish clinically and bring the Black Stars level.
The equalizer shifted momentum in Ghana’s favor, as they pushed forward in search of a winner.
Just as the match seemed destined to end in a draw, Niger struck a decisive blow in stoppage time.
A rapid counterattack led to a free kick near Ghana’s penalty area, and Sako capitalized with a towering header in the 90+2 minute, restoring Niger’s lead and sparking jubilant celebrations among their fans.
In a dramatic twist, Ghana was handed a lifeline in the dying seconds when star player Mohammed Kudus stepped up to take a penalty.
However, Niger’s goalkeeper produced a stunning save to deny the Black Stars an equalizer, effectively sealing the win for his team.
Despite the victory, Niger’s qualification hopes were already out of reach, leaving the result as little more than a morale booster.
For Ghana, the loss capped a disappointing campaign, marked by missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
Speaking after the match, Ghana’s coach reflected on the team’s performance: “We showed fight in the second half, but the small details cost us.
We need to analyze and rebuild as we prepare for future challenges.”
While Niger will celebrate their hard-earned victory, both sides must now focus on regrouping and learning from the campaign’s shortcomings.
For Ghana, the defeat serves as a stark reminder of the work needed to reclaim their standing as one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses.
