In a dramatic turn of events, Angola’s late goal secured a 1-0 victory over Ghana, marking the Black Stars’ first loss at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in 24 years.
The last defeat at this venue was in 2000, against South Africa during the AFCON.
Ghanaian coach Otto Addo fielded a robust starting eleven for the match against Angola. Lawrence Ati Zigi was chosen as the goalkeeper, with a defensive lineup of Alidu Seidu, Tariq Lamptey, Mohammed Salisu, and Abdul Mumin.
In midfield, captain Thomas Partey partnered with Elisha Owusu, while Jordan Ayew, who had recently scored a hat-trick against the Central African Republic, was positioned on the left wing. Abdul Fatawu Issahaku occupied the right wing, and Mohammed Kudus played behind striker Antoine Semenyo.
Ghana began the game energetically but struggled to convert their opportunities, with their final passes lacking precision.
Their first notable chance came in the fifth minute when Ayew’s cutback was intercepted before reaching Kudus. Shortly after, Semenyo’s effort from a rebound was off target.
Angola responded with their own threats; Gelson Dala’s volley missed the mark, and his header was comfortably saved by Ati Zigi. Kudus also had a shot saved after creating space on the right.
Despite a more determined start to the second half, Ghana continued to find it difficult to break down Angola’s defense and resorted to long-range shots. Ati Zigi made a crucial save in the 79th minute to deny Dala.
As the game approached its conclusion, both Issahaku and Kudus missed late chances, and Angola’s substitute Milson capitalized on a defensive error by Mumin to score the decisive goal, sealing the victory for the visitors.
This result sees Ghana fall to third place in Group F, trailing Angola and Sudan, who also won their match against Niger. The Black Stars will look to bounce back in their upcoming AFCON qualifier against Niger on Monday.
