Black Stars hopes of reigniting their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers campaign took a hit as they were held to a goalless draw by Sudan at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, October 10. In a match that was meant to mark a triumphant return to their home ground, the Black Stars fell short of securing their first win in the qualifiers, leaving fans and analysts questioning the team’s direction.
With a strong lineup fielded by coach Otto Addo, there was optimism in the air, especially with Mohammed Kudus donning the captain’s armband in the absence of Thomas Partey. The return of Alexander Djiku in defense and the introduction of young talents like Ibrahim Sulemana added to the sense that this could be the match to get Ghana back on track. But despite several promising moments, the stars of Accra were left disappointed.
Missed Opportunities in a Must-Win Match
Ghana started brightly, nearly breaking the deadlock within minutes when Djiku’s shot narrowly missed the target. It set the tone for a game where chances were abundant but the finishing touch was elusive. Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, and Kudus were among those guilty of not capitalizing on prime opportunities, with Sudan’s goalkeeper frustrating Ghana with a series of fine saves.
As the match progressed into the second half, the team found themselves increasingly desperate. Semenyo missed a golden chance from close range, and substitute Inaki Williams injected much-needed energy but couldn’t find the back of the net. Kudus, ever the creative spark, also came agonizingly close, but luck was not on Ghana’s side.
Ghana’s AFCON Campaign in Danger
This latest result leaves Ghana with just two points from three games, making qualification for the 2025 AFCON increasingly uncertain. The pressure is mounting on Otto Addo, who will need to find a solution quickly with a critical away fixture against Sudan in Libya looming. A win there could lift Ghana to second in Group F, but anything less may spell the end of their AFCON dreams.
The draw also prolongs Ghana’s winless run in competitive matches, and with expectations soaring for this talented squad, the clock is ticking for the Black Stars to prove their mettle. Fans took to social media after the match, voicing their frustration, with BlackStars trending as supporters dissected the team’s lack of firepower and tactical rigidity.
Ghana’s journey to redemption continues with their return leg against Sudan. With a win desperately needed, Otto Addo will likely reshuffle his tactics and personnel to bring the firepower the team has been sorely missing. Can the Black Stars rise to the challenge and reignite their AFCON hopes, or will this campaign end in disappointment? All eyes will be on Libya next week.
