Ghana’s coach, Otto Addo, is optimistic about securing a much-needed first victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola on Friday evening in Luanda, as the Black Stars face a crucial match that could determine their qualification fate.
The Black Stars are currently struggling, having gone four consecutive matches without a victory in the qualifiers. This run of poor results has put their hopes of qualifying for the prestigious tournament in serious jeopardy.
If Ghana fails to secure a win against Angola, it would effectively end their qualification bid, marking the first time they would miss out on the AFCON since 2004, a situation the team is determined to avoid.
“This is our chance for the first victory in this competition, and it’s a crucial opportunity to keep our hopes alive,” Addo said in a pre-match interview, highlighting the importance of the game for both the team and their passionate supporters.
Addo, however, acknowledges the challenges of facing Angola on their home turf. The coach pointed out that Angola will be fully prepared and determined to secure a positive result, making the encounter particularly difficult for Ghana.
“These are difficult games. You can’t take it for granted that they will play at 50 percent; I know Angola will be 100 percent ready,” he said. “It’s an away game, and it’s going to be very tight, but mentally, the boys are ready.”
Despite missing several key players, including the influential Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams, Addo remains confident in the new additions to the squad. “The atmosphere is really good.
The new players have adapted well and have shown in training that they understand our playing philosophy. It’s a big challenge, but I’m confident they’ll deliver,” he noted.
This confidence in his new players will be vital, as Ghana looks to make the most of the talent available to them for the match.
The Black Stars currently sit at the bottom of Group F with only two points, making the match against Angola a must-win encounter if they are to maintain any hope of progressing in the qualifiers.
Ghana has historically been a dominant force in African football, and a failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON would be a significant blow to the nation’s footballing reputation.
The match will take place at the 11 de Novembro Stadium in Luanda, with the kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. local time. With so much at stake, all eyes will be on the Black Stars to see if they can deliver a crucial win that will keep their AFCON dream alive.
