The Black Stars are on the brink of missing the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time since 2004 following a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Sudan in Libya.
Two rapid-fire goals from Ahmed Al-Tash and Mohammed Abdel Rahman in the second half sealed the victory for the Falcons, who now require just one point from their remaining two matches to secure a place in Morocco.
Ghana’s chances for qualification are now out of their own control; even if they achieve two consecutive victories, it may not be sufficient to guarantee their spot at AFCON.
Player Ratings
Lawrence Ati Zigi – 5
The St. Gallen goalkeeper was not primarily responsible for the two goals conceded. He made several crucial saves in the first half, keeping his team’s hopes alive.
Gideon Mensah – 5
Mensah had an average performance. He cleared a goal-bound shot off the line, but Ahmed Al-Tash was present to convert the rebound.
Mohammed Salisu – 4.5
Salisu struggled to prevent Abdel Rahman from scoring the second goal. He appeared unfocused, giving away an unnecessary free kick in the first half due to a handball.
Alexander Djiku – 5
Djiku had issues with his positioning, often leaving his defensive partners vulnerable. He seemed a shadow of the player admired by many for his commanding presence.
Alidu Seidu – 4.5
The Stade Rennais defender was partially to blame for the first goal, failing to eliminate the threat after attempting to match his opponent physically. He was frequently out of position and overcommitted in attack.
Elisha Owusu – 5
Owusu’s earlier partnership with Ibrahim Sulemana appeared effective, but they looked disjointed in this match, leaving significant gaps for the Sudanese to exploit.
Ibrahim Sulemana – 5
Sulemana faced similar challenges as his midfield partner. He seemed disconnected from both Owusu and the defenders, possibly due to the pairing of two similar players. He was substituted for Micheal Baidoo.
Antoine Semenyo – 5
The Bournemouth forward failed to make a positive impact, lacking in quality chances created for his teammates. He was ultimately replaced by Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
Mohammed Kudus – 5
As captain, Kudus has struggled since the 2023 AFCON. His choice of shots and passes was subpar, extending his goal drought for the Black Stars to seven games, increasing the pressure on him.
Ernest Nuamah – 5
Nuamah appeared threatening in the first half but was less impactful in the second. He was substituted for Jordan Ayew before the hour mark.
Inaki Williams – 5.5
The Athletic Bilbao forward seemed the most dangerous player in the squad. Although he missed a first-half chance, he scored in the second half, which was disallowed for handball.
Substitutes
Tariq Lamptey – 4
Lamptey had limited impact after the team fell behind 2-0.
Micheal Baidoo – 4
Baidoo offered a different style compared to Sulemana but came on too late to make a difference.
Jonas Adjetey – 4
Adjetey replaced the injured Mohammed Salisu but had little involvement after the team went behind.
Abdul Fatawu Issahaku – 3.5
Issahaku made several poor decisions on the ball and failed to inspire a comeback for Ghana.
Jordan Ayew – 4
Ayew came on before the team conceded both goals but did not significantly impact the match.
