Angola maintained their unbeaten run in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a 1-1 draw against Ghana at the Estádio 11 de Novembro on Friday evening.
The Palancas Negras started brightly, dominating the early exchanges as they sought to extend their strong form in the qualifying campaign.
Forward Fredy spearheaded Angola’s attack, creating multiple chances, but Ghanaian goalkeeper Nurudeen Abdulai stood firm, denying the hosts an early breakthrough.
Despite Angola’s pressure, Ghana struck first in the 18th minute.
Leicester City’s Jordan Ayew curled a sublime free kick from long range into the top corner, leaving Angola’s keeper Neblu with no chance.
The Black Stars gained a crucial early advantage despite Angola controlling much of the play.
The hosts responded with urgency, piling on pressure in search of an equaliser.
Their persistence led to a penalty after Gideon Mensah brought down Zito Luvumbo in the box.
M’Bala Nzola, on loan at Ligue 1’s Lens from Fiorentina, stepped up to take the spot kick.
However, Abdulai produced a brilliant save to maintain Ghana’s lead, frustrating the home side further.
Angola continued to push as the second half began, and their efforts finally bore fruit in the 64th minute.
Milson delivered an excellent cross from the wing to substitute Zini, who headed home to draw Angola level.
The goal sent the home crowd into raptures and shifted the momentum firmly in the Palancas Negras’ favour.
The closing stages saw Ghana attempt to wrestle back control, with Mohammed Kudus leading their efforts.
However, Angola’s defence held strong, limiting the Black Stars to speculative efforts that failed to trouble Neblu in goal.
The draw leaves Angola’s unbeaten record intact, while Ghana missed an opportunity to secure all three points.
Both teams remain in contention for qualification as the AFCON 2025 qualifiers approach their final stages.
Match Summary
Angola (0) 1: Zini (64′)
Ghana (1) 1: Ayew (18′)
Angola Starting XI: Neblu, Gaspar, Carmo, Fortuna (Carneiro 58′), Luvumbo (Nteka 73′), Fredy (Maestro 73′), Bastos, Milson (Banza 90′), Nzola (Zini 58′), Hossi, Show
Ghana Starting XI: Abdulai, Seidu, Schindler (Bukari 81′), Simpson, Mensah, Sulemana, Owusu, Fatawu (Annan 46′), Kudus (Nuamah 85′), Baidoo (Konigsdorffer 60′), Ayew
