2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Black Stars Stumble Against Resolute Sudan in Libya

Ghana’s National Men’s Football Team, the Black Stars, saw their chances of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco take a significant hit after a 2-0 loss to Sudan in Libya.

The match highlighted key defensive frailties, as Ghana conceded two goals in quick succession—Ahmed Mahmoud scored in the 62nd minute, followed by Mohammed Abdel-Rahman just three minutes later.

The defensive lapses that led to these goals were glaring. Alidu Seidu and Gideon Mensah’s mix-up allowed Mahmoud a clear path to the goal, ultimately capitalizing on his initial effort that rebounded off the goal post.

Just moments later, Mohammed Salisu was outpaced by the quicker Abdel-Rahman, who confidently finished past Lawrence Ati Zigi, cementing Sudan’s lead.

Abdel-Rahman’s emphatic sprint to embrace Sudan’s Ghanaian head coach, James Kwasi Appiah, after the goal, underscored the team’s spirit and determination.

Sudan had shown intent in the first half with several threats from Abdel-Rahman and Walieldin Khidir, who narrowly missed scoring opportunities.

Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo managed to create a significant chance, connecting with a Gideon Mensah cross that came close to finding the net.

Inaki Williams’ early second-half goal for Ghana, unfortunately, was ruled offside, further compounding their woes.

The defensive breakdowns that followed allowed Sudan to take control of the match, dealing a critical blow to Ghana’s AFCON qualification hopes.

Currently, Ghana languishes in third place in Group F with just two points from four games. In contrast, Sudan’s victory propels them to seven points, improving their standing in the group.

Group leaders Angola, with nine points, are set to play against the bottom-ranked Niger, and a win for Angola would secure their place in next year’s AFCON in Morocco.

This result places immense pressure on Ghana as they face an uphill battle to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.

The Black Stars will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities to revive their campaign and keep their AFCON dreams alive.