The quick-fire format for the AFCON 2025 qualifiers will go down in history as Ghana's worst performance in a qualifier since the qualifying format wa
The quick-fire format for the AFCON 2025 qualifiers will go down in history as Ghana’s worst performance in a qualifier since the qualifying format was introduced in the AFCON and FIFA World Cups.
Ghana failed to keep up the intensity and the huge demands needed to play six games within a few months.
Heading into November’s international break, it was very clear the Black Stars were never going to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, but no one expected them to lose to the lowly Niger.
At the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday afternoon, the Black Stars’ worst performance in the year 2024 continued after failing to trouble Niger.
Ezzaki Badou’s side took a shock 1-0 lead via TP Mazembe’s midfielder Ousseini Badamassi’s 22nd-minute strike. The red-hot Niger who came into this game fancying their chance to secure the final ticket was so sensational as they looked well organised.
In the second half, youngster Jerry Afriyie, on his debut for the Black Stars, equalised in the 69th minute from Ernest Nuamah’s assist.
Niger snatched a late winner through Sako’s late strike. Ghana could have gotten a point but Mohammed Kudus missed a 96th minute penalty.
Niger failed to book a place in the finals in Morocco after Sudan secured a hard-fought goalless against Angola.
Ezzaki Badou will be extremely proud of his Nigerians after they put up a late show in the qualifiers. The West African minnows have ended the year on a brighter note and will look forward to continuing their fine form in March 2025 when the World Cup qualifiers resume.
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