Ghana face AFCON exclusion for first time in 20 Years after defeat to Sudan
Sudan enhanced their chances of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with a commanding 2-0 victory over Ghana on Tuesday afternoon.
The Falcons of Jediane delivered a stunning blow to Ghana's AFCON 2025 hopes with a 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Al Tash and Mohammed Abdel-Rahman. This result leaves Ghana in a precarious position in their qualifying group.
Both teams struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with neither side managing to score. Sudan's Abobaker Eisa provided a scare early on, forcing Ghanaian goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi into a crucial save after Eisa broke through the defense. Despite Ghana dominating possession with 60% and attempting four shots, they failed to register a single shot on target before halftime.
Ghana's aggressive high-pressing game initially frustrated Sudan, but the North Africans proved resolute in defense. A promising cross from Gideon Mensah in the 19th minute was wasted due to a mix-up between Inaki Williams and Ernest Nuamah, highlighting Ghana's struggles in converting opportunities.
After the break, a potential breakthrough for Ghana came when Inaki Williams found the net, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the build-up. Sudan quickly capitalized on the momentum shift, with Ahmed Al Tash showcasing his pace and scoring the opener in the 62nd minute after exploiting gaps in Ghana's defense. Just three minutes later, Mohamed Abdel-Rahman doubled Sudan's lead, leaving the Black Stars trailing and frustrated.
Despite making attacking substitutions, including bringing on Jordan Ayew and Fatawu Issahaku, Ghana failed to find the back of the net. Their best chance came from Mohammed Kudus, whose ambitious effort sailed over the bar, while Williams missed a volley from inside the box. Sudan, employing time-wasting tactics and physical play, managed to frustrate Ghana's efforts further.
The defeat leaves Ghana languishing in third place in the group with only 2 points, while Angola leads with 9 and Sudan follows closely with 7. To keep their qualification hopes alive, the Black Stars must win their remaining matches against Angola and Niger, while also hoping for Sudan to drop points.
Ghana's struggles in recent tournaments are becoming increasingly evident, with their last AFCON triumph dating back to 1982. Back-to-back group-stage exits in 2021 and 2023 have raised concerns about the future of Ghanaian football, and failing to qualify for 2025 would represent a significant decline for a nation once dominant in African football.
Coach Otto Addo appeared dejected on the sidelines, knowing the implications of this defeat could jeopardize his position. With no goals scored during the October international break, the pressure is mounting on the Black Stars as they seek to regroup and salvage their qualifying campaign.
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