Image redemption time for Black Stars as they face Angola in AFCON qualifers Friday

Ghana's Black stars face a make-or-break moment as they prepare to take on Angola's Palancas Negras on Friday, November 15, in Luanda in the penultimate 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

With a challenging campaign thus far, and their qualification hopes hanginG by a thread, the Black Stars must pull off a strong performance to restore public confidence and keep their slim chance of qualification alive.

Coach Otto Addo’s side sits precariously in the group standings, with just two points from four games. Their path to qualification requires a miracle; they must win both of their remaining matches and hope that Sudan, currently on seven points, loses their last two games.

The task ahead is daunting, yet Coach Addo remains optimistic. He recently announced a 25-man squad, largely composed of foreign-based players, demonstrating his determination to compete until the very end. Despite public frustration over recent results, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has backed Addo, expressing confidence in his leadership and long-term potential. 

"The FA engaged Otto Addo on a long-term basis, and based on his early performances against Mali and the Central African Republic, we believe there’s potential for growth," the GFA's Head of Public Relations and Strategy said in an interview with Metro TV.

He acknowledged the setbacks in the AFCON qualifying series but noted that they saw room for improvement in future qualifiers, including the upcoming World Cup campaign.

Friday's game in Luanda also offers Ghana a chance for redemption, following a 1-0 loss to Angola in their previous encounter at the Baba Yara Stadium. That defeat ended Ghana's over two-decade unbeaten streak at the venue, intensifying the stakes for a comeback.

However, the Black Stars will be without several key players, including Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams. Partey's absence in the midfield will be keenly felt after his absence was  noticeable in Ghana’s recent 0-2 loss to Sudan. Williams, who has been ruled out due to injury, and center-back Mohammed Salisu, also recovering from an injury, further weaken the team. 

Coach Addo will be looking to players like Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo and Kudus Mohammed to lead the team in their absence, with Kudus eager to make an impact after a suspension at the club level.

Ernest Nuamah, Alexander Djiku and Alidu Seidu are also expected to bring their best to help Ghana secure a crucial win. For Angola, who have already booked their spot in the AFCON, Friday’s game will be less about qualification and more about putting on a show for their home fans.

Led by Coach Pedro Valdemar Soares Goncalves, Angola will be looking to repeat their victory over Ghana with standout players like Zito Luvumbo, Cristavao Mabululu, and Cafumana Show aiming to secure a 100 per cent qualifying record.

For the Black Stars, this clash in Luanda represents more than just a shot at qualification — it’s an opportunity to restore faith and show resilience. A win on Friday could not only keep their AFCON dreams alive but also rekindle the hopes of fans across Ghana.