Black Stars’ AFCON Qualification in Doubt After 2-0 Loss to Sudan
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The Black Stars were defeated 2-0 by the Falcons of Jediane in Libya during matchday four of the AFCON qualifications.
Ghana's aspirations of securing a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) suffered a significant blow following a disappointing loss to Sudan on Tuesday, October 15. The Black Stars were defeated 2-0 by the Falcons of Jediane in Libya during matchday four of the AFCON qualifying campaign. This result has complicated Ghana’s path to qualification, placing added pressure on their remaining fixtures.
The deadlock in the match was broken in the 62nd minute when Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud capitalized on a defensive lapse in the Ghanaian box. A failed clearance attempt by Gideon Mensah resulted in confusion, allowing Mahmoud to pounce. Although Mensah tried to clear the ball off the line, Mahmoud was in the right place to tap it into the empty net, giving Sudan a 1-0 lead.
Just three minutes later, Sudan extended their advantage through Mohamed Abdelrahman, who showcased his physicality and determination. Abdelrahman outmuscled Ghanaian defender Mohammed Salisu and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi to make it 2-0. The quick double strike left the Black Stars struggling to recover from the setback.
Ghana had an opportunity to reduce the deficit when Inaki Williams connected with a cross from Tariq Lamptey. However, Williams’ volley narrowly missed the target, going wide of the post. Despite the team's late attempts to get back into the game, Otto Addo's side was unable to find the back of the net before the final whistle.
The defeat has left Ghana in a precarious position in Group F, sitting in third place with just two points from four matches. The Black Stars have drawn two games and lost two, making their qualification hopes more challenging. With only two matches remaining in the qualifiers, Ghana will need to secure victories against Niger and Angola during the November international break to stay in contention. Additionally, they will have to rely on favorable outcomes from other fixtures within the group to improve their chances of qualifying for the prestigious tournament.
The loss to Sudan not only highlighted defensive weaknesses but also underscored Ghana’s struggles to convert key chances. With time running out, the Black Stars must regroup and deliver strong performances in their upcoming matches to revive their hopes of making it to the 2025 AFCON.
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