Angola will aim to maintain their near-perfect record in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers when they host Ghana at Estadio 11 de Novembro on Friday.
Meanwhile, Ghana will be desperate for a win to keep alive their fading hopes of reaching next year’s continental tournament.
Match Preview
Angola have defied expectations in Group F, securing dominant wins against Ghana and Sudan, and completing a comfortable double over Niger last month.
Their recent 1-0 victory over Niger, courtesy of Zini’s first-minute goal, marked their eighth consecutive win and extended an unbeaten streak to 12 matches, dating back to a March friendly against Morocco. Angola's solid defense and impressive offense have seen them keep seven clean sheets and score 21 goals in this period.
As one of only five teams with a flawless record in the AFCON qualifiers, Angola sit atop Group F with 12 points, five points ahead of Sudan, and 10 clear of third-placed Ghana.
In contrast, Ghana’s qualification campaign has been rocky. After a disappointing 1-0 loss to Angola in their opening game, the Black Stars managed only draws against Niger and Sudan, followed by a 2-0 defeat to Sudan in Benghazi. Ghana now find themselves in a must-win situation, needing victories in their final two games while relying on other results to retain a slim chance of qualification. Currently on a poor run of just one away victory in the past two years, Ghana faces an uphill battle.
Team News
Angola:
Midfielder Aldair Ferreira has been called up for the first time and could make his international debut on Friday. Captain Fredy, on the brink of earning his 60th cap, is set to become one of Angola’s most-capped players.
Ghana:
The Black Stars will be without key players, including Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, as well as Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Ibrahim Osman, and Tariq Lamptey. Osman Bukari returns to the squad, while Mohammed Kudus is expected to make his comeback after a recent suspension.
Probable Lineups:
Angola: Neblu; Fortuna, Gaspar, Bastos, Carneiro; Show, Maestro, Fredy; Milson, Mabululu, Luvumbo
Ghana: Ati-Zigi; Mensah, Seidu, Aidoo, Opoku; Sulemana, Kudus, Simpson; Ayew, Fatawu, PaintsPrediction
Prediction: Angola 1-1 Ghana
Given Ghana’s injuries and Angola's strong form, this clash is likely to end in a draw, with both teams sharing the points.
