Ghana’s Black Stars failed to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a 1-1 draw against Angola in Luanda.
The result marks the first time since 2004 that the four-time African champions will miss the prestigious tournament.
Head coach Otto Addo made several changes to the starting lineup, with Nations FC defender Razak Simpson and midfielder Michael Baidoo handed their first starts. Abdul Manaf Nurudeen was also chosen ahead of Lawrence Ati-Zigi in goal.
Jordan Ayew opened the scoring for Ghana in the 19th minute with a stunning free kick from 35 yards, after Mohammed Kudus was fouled. Ayew, opting to take the set piece ahead of Kudus, unleashed a powerful strike that left the Angolan goalkeeper helpless.
Angola quickly found an opportunity to respond when a foul by Gideon Mensah in the box led to a penalty. However, debutant Manaf Nurudeen made a brilliant save to deny M’Bala Nzola, keeping Ghana's lead intact.
Baidoo came close to doubling the lead just before halftime, but his effort was blocked by the Angolan defense. Ghana headed into the break with a slim advantage.
In the second half, changes saw Ebenezer Annan replace Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, while Ransford Yeboah came on for Baidoo. Angola capitalized on a lapse in Ghana’s defense to equalize, with substitute Zini connecting to a cross from Milson to beat Nurudeen in the 62nd minute.
The Black Stars pushed for a winner, with Kudus missing narrowly in the 71st minute. Moments later, Ayew set up Ransford Yeboah, but his close-range effort was saved by the Angolan goalkeeper.
Nurudeen delivered another crucial save in the dying minutes to keep Ghana in the game, but the draw proved insufficient to secure qualification.
The Black Stars now face Niger on Monday in Accra for their final match, with their AFCON hopes officially dashed.
Below is the highlights of the game
