2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Five things we learned from Ghana’s defeat to Sudan
Ghana’s Black Stars are facing the stark reality of missing the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 20 years following a 2-0 defeat to Sudan at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benghazi.
The match revealed critical issues within the squad, including defensive lapses and a lack of offensive threat, raising urgent questions about the future of both the players and coach Otto Addo as they grapple with the weight of their faltering campaign.
Below are five things we learned.
- Qualification Hopes Dwindling
Ghana’s loss to Sudan has put them on the brink of missing the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 20 years. With only two points from four matches, the Black Stars now find themselves in a precarious position. To qualify, they must win their remaining two games against Angola and Niger and hope Sudan fails to secure points in their matches.
- Defensive Errors Prove Costly
The Black Stars’ defence was underwhelming, with glaring errors leading to both of Sudan’s goals. Alidu Seidu and Gideon Mensah failed to clear their lines, allowing Ahmed Al-Tash and Mohamed Abdel Rahman to exploit the gaps. Such defensive lapses have been a recurring theme for Ghana, further complicating their qualification efforts.
- Lack of Offensive Threat
Ghana’s attacking play was lacklustre, managing only one shot on target throughout the match. Despite having talented players like Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams, the team struggled to create meaningful chances. The disallowed goal by Williams, which was later deemed a poor call, added to the frustration, highlighting the need for a clinical edge in front of goal.
- Coaching Decisions Under Scrutiny
Coach Otto Addo faces increasing pressure following this defeat. The team’s inability to respond effectively to Sudan’s tactics raises questions about his strategic choices. With qualification hanging in the balance, Addo must find a way to motivate and reorganize the team to achieve the necessary results in their upcoming matches.
- Pressure Mounts on Key Players
The spotlight is now on key players like Kudus, who has struggled to find his form since the 2023 AFCON. With the team’s attacking output dwindling, all eyes are on the captain to inspire his teammates and regain his scoring touch. Ghana’s reliance on individual brilliance has become apparent, but without cohesive teamwork, their chances of qualifying are slim.