Vienna Verdict: Black Stars exposed in heavy Austria loss
Vienna Verdict: Black Stars exposed in heavy Austria loss
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Vienna Verdict: Black Stars exposed in heavy Austria loss (VIDEO)

GraphicOnline Sports News 3 minutes read

Ghana endured a difficult night in Vienna as the Black Stars were outclassed 5-1 by Austria in an international friendly at the Ernst Happel Stadium on Friday.

Head coach Otto Addo named a strong starting line-up, with Lawrence Ati-Zigi in goal behind a back four of Caleb Yirenkyi, Alexander Djiku, Jonas Adjetey and Derrick Köhn, while Thomas Partey partnered Kwasi Sibo in midfield. Captain Jordan Ayew led the attack alongside Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Antoine Semenyo and Prince Kwabena Adu.

The Black Stars began brightly, showing composure in possession and linking play well in the opening exchanges, but their early momentum was disrupted when Austria were awarded a penalty. A header from Kevin Danso struck the arm of Jonas Adjetey, and Marcel Sabitzer stepped up to convert from the spot to give the hosts the lead.

Despite falling behind, Ghana continued to show flashes of promise, creating openings but lacking cutting edge in the final third. Prince Adu found space behind the Austrian defence on a number of occasions, while Semenyo came close to equalising but fired over from close range.

Ati-Zigi produced a crucial save late in the first half to keep the deficit at one goal heading into the break, but Austria returned with renewed intensity after half-time. Michael Gregoritsch doubled the lead shortly after the restart, finishing from close range following a well-worked move involving Sabitzer.

The pressure mounted as Stefan Posch added a third, capitalising on defensive lapses to score unmarked at the back post. Ghana attempted to respond, with Issahaku embarking on a promising solo run, but his effort failed to hit the target.

Addo introduced fresh legs, handing debuts to Patric Pfeiffer and Marvin Senaya, but Austria maintained control of proceedings. Ayew briefly gave Ghana hope with a well-taken goal in the 76th minute, finishing off a pass from Ibrahim Sulemana to reduce the deficit.

However, the hosts responded almost immediately, with Carney Chukwuemeka restoring their three-goal cushion after another incisive attacking move. Kamaldeen Sulemana later came close to adding a second for Ghana but narrowly missed the target.

Austria, led by Ralf Rangnick, sealed an emphatic victory with a fifth goal in stoppage time, underlining their dominance on the night.

The result highlights areas of concern for Ghana as they continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the technical team expected to reassess both defensive organisation and attacking efficiency ahead of their next assignment.

Watch all the goals below;


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