by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana’s AFCON Hopes Hang by a Thread as Team Prepares for Pivotal Clash
The pressure is mounting on the Black Stars as they gear up for a must-win encounter against Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Head coach Otto Addo has rallied his team, emphasizing that victory is non-negotiable to keep their slim qualification hopes alive.
Ghana, a four-time African champion, is on the brink of missing AFCON for the first time in two decades. Their qualifying campaign has been a nightmare so far, with a 1-0 loss to Madagascar in Kumasi and a 1-1 stalemate against Niger in their opening fixtures. A doubleheader against Sudan added to their woes, as Ghana managed a frustrating goalless draw at home before a humbling 2-0 defeat away.
Currently sitting at the bottom of Group F with just two points, the Black Stars’ fate hangs in the balance. Niger’s resounding 4-0 win over Sudan on Thursday has handed Ghana a lifeline, but the task ahead is daunting. To qualify, Ghana must defeat Angola and Niger in their remaining games and hope that Sudan loses to Angola.
Speaking to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) website, Addo expressed confidence in his squad’s mental readiness ahead of the Angola showdown. “Mentally, the boys are ready. I’m looking forward to that game. It’s time for our first victory in this competition,” said the former Borussia Dortmund talent coach.
The Black Stars will take on the Palancas Negras tonight at 19:00 GMT, with the weight of a nation’s hopes resting on their shoulders.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, is gearing up for a decisive encounter against Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The match is set to take place at Estádio 11 de Novembro, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT today.
Head coach Otto Addo, speaking ahead of the match, expressed confidence in his team’s readiness. “The boys look sharp and in really good condition,” the 45-year-old stated in an interview with the Ghana Football Association. “It’s a good atmosphere. We know how important this match is. For me, the boys look ready and sharp,” he added.
The Black Stars are facing a challenging campaign, currently sitting fourth in Group F with just two points from four games. However, Niger’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Sudan has given Ghana a slim chance to qualify. To progress, the team must secure back-to-back wins against Angola and Niger, while also hoping for a Sudan loss against Angola.
After a disappointing start to the qualifiers, Ghana’s journey now hangs in the balance, with tonight’s match being pivotal to their hopes of securing a spot in the tournament.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The pressure is mounting on Ghana’s Black Stars as they prepare to face Angola in a pivotal 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. With kick-off set for 19:00 GMT at the Estádio 11 de Novembro, head coach Otto Addo acknowledges the daunting challenge ahead.
Angola, already qualified for the tournament, remain a formidable opponent under the guidance of Pedro Gonçalves. Speaking to the Ghana Football Association’s website, Addo admitted he expects a “difficult and tight” encounter, despite Angola having little at stake.
“These are difficult games. You can’t assume they’ll play at half strength or take it easy,” Addo emphasized. “I know Angola will be 100% ready. It’s going to be a tough away match, and we’re expecting a very tight contest.”
The Black Stars, winless in their four Group F matches, currently sit fourth with just two points. However, their qualification hopes remain alive following Niger’s dominant 4-0 win over Sudan. Ghana must now secure victories in their remaining matches against Angola and Niger, while also banking on a Sudan loss to Angola.
Despite the uphill battle, Addo expressed confidence in his squad’s mental readiness. “The boys are mentally prepared. It’s time for our first victory in this competition. This game presents a great opportunity to keep our hopes alive,” he stated.
The Black Stars wrapped up their final training session on Thursday and are determined to change their fortunes in the qualifiers. Fans eagerly await what promises to be a high-stakes clash that could define Ghana’s AFCON journey.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
As Ghana gears up for two decisive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches, newly-appointed Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has received words of wisdom from former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu.
The Leicester City forward assumes the captaincy in the absence of Thomas Partey, leading Ghana into a must-win clash against Angola tonight at the Estádio 11 de Novembro, followed by a final group-stage game against Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, November 18.
Agyemang-Badu, a 2009 U-20 World Cup winner, has advised Ayew to focus on building strong camaraderie with his teammates. “Jordan Ayew is the most senior player in the team now. I urge him to connect with the guys—visit their rooms, talk to them, and guide them. Players need mentorship to understand the demands and culture of Ghanaian football,” Badu shared during an interview with Ahotor FM.
Reflecting on the practices of former Black Stars greats like Asamoah Gyan and Stephen Appiah, Badu emphasized the importance of Ayew using his 13 years of national team experience to foster unity. “Jordan knows the expectations of the nation. Our fans demand excellence, and he can help the players prepare mentally and emotionally for these games.”
The Black Stars face a steep challenge to secure AFCON qualification. After Niger’s 4-0 triumph over Sudan, Ghana must win both their matches and hope Sudan falters against Angola. The pressure is immense, but with Ayew’s leadership and a united squad, Ghana aims to rise to the occasion.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
The Uganda Cranes have written a new chapter in their football history by securing a spot at the prestigious 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. After a spirited qualification campaign filled with determination, resilience, and thrilling performances, the team has emerged triumphant.
Fans across the nation erupted in celebration as the Cranes’ qualification was confirmed, marking a proud moment for Ugandan football. With eyes now set on Morocco, the players are gearing up to take on the continent’s best, aiming to make an unforgettable impact on the tournament.
The Cranes’ return to AFCON underscores their growth as a force in African football, fueled by unwavering support from their fans and strategic leadership on and off the field.
