Ghana’s Black Stars have missed out on qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in two decades, following a 1-1 draw with Angola in Luanda. The result marks the end of a streak of AFCON appearances that dates back to 2006, leaving fans and pundits disappointed.
In a lineup featuring debut starts for Nations FC defender Razak Simpson and midfielder Michael Baidoo, coach Otto Addo sought to blend youth with experience. Abdul Manaf Nurudeen was also handed the gloves ahead of Lawrence Ati-Zigi, a bold move that showcased trust in the young goalkeeper.
Ghana took the lead in the 19th minute when Jordan Ayew scored a stunning free kick after Mohammed Kudus was fouled just outside the box. Ayew’s precision strike gave the Black Stars a crucial early advantage.
Angola nearly leveled the score in the 27th minute when Gideon Mensah’s foul on Zito Luvumbo resulted in a penalty. However, Abdul Manaf Nurudeen, making his competitive debut, heroically denied M’Bala Nzola from the spot, keeping Ghana in the lead.
Despite their defensive resilience, the Black Stars couldn’t capitalize on additional opportunities. Baidoo’s effort in the 44th minute was blocked, and Ghana went into halftime with a slim advantage.
Angola found their equalizer in the 63rd minute when substitute Zini Cabaca Salvador headed in a perfectly delivered cross from Joao Felicio Milson. Kudus attempted to restore Ghana’s lead in the 71st minute, but his shot went wide.
In the dying minutes, Nurudeen was called upon again, producing a spectacular save to deny Angola a potential winner, but Ghana’s failure to secure a victory sealed their fate in the qualification campaign.
The Black Stars will play their final qualifying match against Niger on November 19, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium. Although the game is now inconsequential for Ghana’s AFCON hopes, it offers the team an opportunity to restore some pride in front of home fans.
