Ghana’s journey in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers began on a disappointing note as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Angola on Thursday, September 5, at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi. The Black Stars, who were expected to secure a comfortable win at home, were instead left to rue missed opportunities as the Palancas Negras claimed a crucial victory on Ghanaian soil.
In a match that proved to be a tense and tightly contested affair, it was Angola who emerged victorious, much to the surprise of the home crowd.
Both teams fought hard throughout the 90 minutes, but it was a late intervention from the Angolan bench that ultimately decided the outcome.
Angolan midfielder Milson, who plays for Red Star Belgrade, came on as a substitute in the 76th minute and turned the game on its head.
In the dying moments of stoppage time, Milson found the back of the net, scoring the only goal of the match in the 94th minute.
His decisive strike secured all three points for Angola, leaving the Ghanaian side stunned and frustrated.
For Angola, this victory was not just about gaining an early advantage in the qualifiers; it was also about redemption.
The Palancas Negras had previously suffered a 1-0 defeat to Ghana on the same pitch during the AFCON 2023 qualifiers.
This time, however, they managed to turn the tables, showcasing their growth and resilience by overcoming one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses on their home turf.
The defeat marks a troubling start for Ghana, a team widely regarded as one of the favorites to qualify from Group F.
Losing at home, especially in the opening match, could have significant implications for the Black Stars as they navigate the rest of their campaign.
With five matches remaining, including challenging away fixtures against Angola and Sudan, the pressure is already mounting on Ghana to recover quickly and avoid further setbacks.
As it stands, Angola now shares the top spot in Group F with Sudan, who also secured a win on the first day of qualifiers.
For Ghana, the road to AFCON 2025 has become more challenging, and the Black Stars will need to regroup and refocus if they are to keep their qualification hopes alive.
This result serves as a reminder that in the unpredictable world of football, even the strongest teams can falter, and Angola’s triumph in Kumasi is a testament to their determination and tactical discipline.
Angola Stuns Ghana in AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Opener
Ghana’s journey in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers began on a disappointing note as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Angola on Thursday, September 5, at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
The Black Stars, who were expected to secure a comfortable win at home, were instead left to rue missed opportunities as the Palancas Negras claimed a crucial victory on Ghanaian soil.
In a match that proved to be a tense and tightly contested affair, it was Angola who emerged victorious, much to the surprise of the home crowd.
Both teams fought hard throughout the 90 minutes, but it was a late intervention from the Angolan bench that ultimately decided the outcome.
Angolan midfielder Milson, who plays for Red Star Belgrade, came on as a substitute in the 76th minute and turned the game on its head.
In the dying moments of stoppage time, Milson found the back of the net, scoring the only goal of the match in the 94th minute.
His decisive strike secured all three points for Angola, leaving the Ghanaian side stunned and frustrated.
For Angola, this victory was not just about gaining an early advantage in the qualifiers; it was also about redemption.
The Palancas Negras had previously suffered a 1-0 defeat to Ghana on the same pitch during the AFCON 2023 qualifiers.
This time, however, they managed to turn the tables, showcasing their growth and resilience by overcoming one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses on their home turf.
The defeat marks a troubling start for Ghana, a team widely regarded as one of the favorites to qualify from Group F.
Losing at home, especially in the opening match, could have significant implications for the Black Stars as they navigate the rest of their campaign.
With five matches remaining, including challenging away fixtures against Angola and Sudan, the pressure is already mounting on Ghana to recover quickly and avoid further setbacks.
As it stands, Angola now shares the top spot in Group F with Sudan, who also secured a win on the first day of qualifiers.
For Ghana, the road to AFCON 2025 has become more challenging, and the Black Stars will need to regroup and refocus if they are to keep their qualification hopes alive.
This result serves as a reminder that in the unpredictable world of football, even the strongest teams can falter, and Angola’s triumph in Kumasi is a testament to their determination and tactical discipline.