Black Stars face a significant challenge as they square off against Angola’s Black Sable Antelopes in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
With three days of intense preparation behind them, Ghana is ready to take its first step towards ending a 42-year AFCON title drought.
Led by coach Otto Addo, the team comes into this fixture riding high after crucial wins over Mali and the Central African Republic in June’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which extended their unbeaten run.
Addo, who took charge in March, aims to secure Ghana’s spot in what would be their 25th Africa Cup of Nations appearance, with hopes of surpassing the disappointing group-stage exits in the last two tournaments in Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire.
As Ghana looks to assert dominance in the group, they are keenly aware of Sudan’s recent 1-0 victory over Niger, sending a message that every point matters in these qualifiers.
Head to Head
Ghana have met Angola eight times in all competitions. The Black Stars appear to always have the advantage having won four, drawn three, and lost only once against Angola. Ghana’s last defeat dates back to 1997 when Fabrice Alcebiades scored in the first half to help Angola win at Estadio da Cidadela in Lunada.
Aside from that, the Black Stars have been dominant against Angola, with one of their notable victories coming at the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations when they edged them ( Host Angola) in the quarterfinal through a sublime finish from Asamoah Gyan.
Coach Otto Addo will have a full-strength squad at his disposal as Ghana prepares to face Angola in their opening 2025 AFCON qualifier. Key players like Arsenal’s Thomas Partey, who will serve as stand-in captain, West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, Leicester City duo Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, AS Monaco’s Mohammed Salisu, Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey, and AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo are all set to feature.
Inaki Williams makes his return to the team after recovering from a lengthy two-month absence due to illness, though the Black Stars will be without several key figures due to injuries.
Missing from the lineup are Alexander Djiku, Gideon Mensah, Abdul Salis Samed, Ernest Nuamah, Daniel Kofi Kyere, Kamal Deen Sulemana, and Ibrahim Sulemana.
Angola, meanwhile, brings a formidable squad with a number of players competing in top European leagues. Among them are Serie A’s Zito Luvumbo of Cagliari, Depu from the Portuguese league, and Fredy and Manuel Benson, who play for Burnley in the Championship.
La Liga’s Randy Nteka, who plays for Rayo Vallecano, and Lyon’s Clinton Mata round out Angola’s impressive lineup.
Speaking ahead of the match, Coach Addo emphasized the quality of the Angolan side, highlighting their strong connection to Portugal’s league and urging his players to be prepared for a tough challenge.
The crucial match will kick off at 16:00 GMT at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Thursday, September 5, 2024.