Ghana miss out on 2025 AFCON after draw with Angola

By: Muharuna12 | 1 min read

Ghana will not participate in next year's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after a 1-1 draw with Angola in the qualifiers in Luanda on Friday.

After a run of four matches without a win, the Black Stars faced a make-or-break tie to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Captain Jordan Ayew appeared to have set Ghana on course for victory with a stunning free kick from about 30 yards in the 18th minute.

However, the lead was nearly short-lived. Ten minutes later, Gideon Mensah brought down Zito Luvumbo in the box, resulting in a penalty for Angola.

M'Bala Nzola stepped up to take the spot-kick but sent his effort straight down the middle, allowing Ghana goalkeeper Manaf Nurudeen to make a crucial save.

The reprieve was temporary, as Angola's substitute, Zini, equalized with a powerful header in the 63rd minute, leaving Nurudeen helpless.

The match opened up from there, with end-to-end action as both teams searched for a winner.

Black Stars substitute Ernest Nuamah added pace and trickery, forcing a save from Angolan goalkeeper Neblu.

Meanwhile, Mabulu missed a one-on-one chance with Nurudeen.

The game ended in a draw, bringing disappointment for coach Otto Addo and his charges, who will miss the continental tournament for the first time since 2004.

Ghana now sit fourth in Group F with three points, with one match remaining against Niger on November 18.

Already-qualified Angola top the group with 13 points, while Sudan are second with seven points and Niger has four.