Angola Stuns Ghana with Late Goal

Angola’s Felicio João scored a stoppage-time goal to defeat Ghana 1-0 in a historic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifying match at the Kumasi Baba Yara Sports Stadium. This ends Ghana’s 51-year unbeaten run in AFCON qualifiers at the stadium.

Ghana, a four-time African champion, dominated possession and created several chances throughout the match. However, they were unable to break through Angola’s defense, which displayed tactical discipline and resilience.

The match was tightly contested, with both sides creating opportunities. Ghana’s Black Stars fought hard to maintain their record, which had stood unbroken since 1973. However, Angola’s late goal sent shockwaves through the stadium, leaving fans in disbelief.

The historic defeat marks Ghana’s first home loss in AFCON qualifiers at the Kumasi Baba Yara Sports Stadium since their 3-0 loss to Ivory Coast on October 28, 1973. It also echoes other rare but significant defeats Ghana has suffered on home soil in major tournaments and qualifiers.

Ghana’s loss raises questions about their form as they aim for qualification to the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Despite the defeat, Ghana remains a football powerhouse on the continent, with high hopes that they can regroup and bounce back in their upcoming matches.

The defeat will serve as a reminder that no ground is invincible, and history, no matter how enduring, can be rewritten. Ghana will need to refocus and work towards their next match to stay in the hunt for qualification.

Source: Bright Yeboah Taylor || 5th September, 2024