Ghana Black Stars, has endured a disappointing qualifying campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), failing to secure a single victory in their group matches.
Their latest setback came on November 18, 2024, when they lost at home to Niger, a defeat that sealed their fate in the qualifiers.
Overview of Ghana’s AFCON 2025 Qualifying Campaign
The Black Stars entered the qualifiers with high expectations, given their storied history in African football. However, they have struggled significantly throughout the campaign, ending with just three points from five matches.
Their record includes two losses and three draws, placing them at the bottom of Group F. This marks the first time since 2004 that Ghana will miss out on the AFCON tournament, ending a remarkable streak of 20 consecutive appearances.
Match Against Niger
In their final qualifying match against Niger, Ghana needed a win to avoid finishing last in the group. Unfortunately, they were unable to capitalize on home advantage at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Ghana places last in AFCON 2025 qualifiers
The match ended in a 2-1 defeat, which compounded their woes and confirmed their elimination from contention for AFCON 2025. Key players were absent due to injuries, further complicating an already challenging situation for the team.
Key Matches and Results
Ghana’s journey through the qualifiers has been marked by several disappointing results:
- Ghana 0-1 Angola: A narrow loss at home set a negative tone for their campaign.
- Niger 1-1 Ghana: A frustrating draw where Ghana could not secure a win despite being favored.
- Ghana 0-0 Sudan: Another missed opportunity at home.
- Sudan 2-0 Ghana: A damaging away loss that further diminished their hopes.
- Angola 1-1 Ghana: Despite taking an early lead through Jordan Ayew’s free kick, they conceded an equalizer and dropped crucial points.
The match against Angola was particularly pivotal; Ghana needed a win to keep their qualification hopes alive but ultimately settled for a draw.
Analysis of Performance
Coach Otto Addo highlighted several factors contributing to this disappointing performance. The team’s inability to secure wins at home was particularly detrimental. “In this tournament, you have to win your home games,” he stated after the draw against Angola.
The squad’s overall lack of intensity and cohesion was evident throughout the qualifiers, with defensive frailties leading to conceding goals at critical moments.
Reactions and Implications
The failure to qualify has triggered widespread disappointment among fans and analysts alike. Social media reactions included mockery from rival fans, particularly from Nigeria, reflecting the intense rivalry between the two nations.
The Black Stars’ struggles have raised questions about the future direction of Ghanaian football and potential reforms needed within the national team setup.
Ghana’s inability to win any matches in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers represents a significant low point for a team historically known for its competitive spirit and success on the continental stage.
As they prepare for future competitions, there will be calls for introspection and strategic changes to restore the Black Stars to their former glory.