AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Black Stars ready to explode against Angola

Ghana's Black Stars are primed to launch their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a must-win clash against Angola at the electrifying Baba Yara Stadium this Thursday. 

For Coach Otto Addo, this match is more than just a game; it's a golden opportunity to galvanise his squad and start their journey after a rollercoaster performance in the World Cup qualifiers.

Coach Addo has summoned a squad brimming with talent from across the globe, including the prolific Antoine Semenyo, dynamic Jordan Ayew, and midfield maestro Thomas Partey.

All three have been in scintillating form for their clubs—Semenyo has recently struck twice for Bournemouth, Partey netted for Arsenal last week, and Ayew kicked off his goal tally for Leicester City in the Carabao Cup.

Despite these exciting inclusions, the Black Stars are facing a considerable challenge with several key players sidelined.

Despite the absence of stalwart centre-back Alexander Djiku, winger Ernest Nuamah, and attacking dynamo Kamaldeen Sulemana, along with the omission of Abdul Salis Samed, Gideon Mensah, Daniel Amartey, and veteran Andre Ayew from the 23-man squad, the Ghanaian side has a depth of talents ready to step up to the plate.

Nonetheless, The Ghanaian coach remains resolute and optimistic. Drawing on the successes of their World Cup qualifiers, where Ghana clinched victories against Madagascar, Comoros, and the Central African Republic, while narrowly losing to Mali, the coach is confident his side can rise to the occasion.

The return of standout players like Mohammed Kudus, Tariq Lamptey, and Mohammed Salisu, along with the inclusion of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Athletic Bilbao’s Inaki Williams, adds considerable firepower and depth to Ghana’s ranks.

Historically, the Black Stars have dominated their encounters with Angola, winning four of their eight clashes, with only one defeat and three draws.

Their most recent meeting, during the AFCON qualifiers last March, saw Ghana emerge victorious with a 1-0 win at the Baba Yara Stadium, following a 1-1 draw in Luanda where Semenyo's goal was crucial.

With Semenyo in fine scoring form this season, hopes are high that he will continue his impressive performances and pose a significant threat to the Angolan defence at his favoured venue.

However, the Palancas Negras, under the astute guidance of Coach Pedro Gonçalves, are determined to shake off their past misfortunes against Ghana.

Gonçalves has assembled a formidable 25-man squad, featuring the likes of Nurio Fortuna from KAA Gent, Clinton Mata of Olympique Lyon, Zito Luvumbo from Cagliari Calcio, Benson Manuel of Burnley, Felicio Milson of Red Star Belgrade, and Randy Nketa of Rayo Vallecano.

Gonçalves is set on overturning the trend of defeats and securing a crucial victory that could provide a strong foundation for Angola’s AFCON campaign. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to make a resounding start to their qualification journeys.