Ghana’s hopes for a solid start in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers took a hit on Monday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Niger.
The Black Stars led for much of the game, thanks to a first-half goal from Alidu Seidu, but a late equalizer by Oumar Sako ensured that Niger secured a valuable point at the Stade Municipal de Berkane.
This disappointing result leaves Ghana’s AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign off to a frustrating start, as they will now have to regroup and prepare for their next match against Sudan.
With so much at stake, fans are eagerly awaiting improvements from the Black Stars as they aim to claim a spot in the prestigious tournament.
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Ghana Dominates Early But Falls Short
From the opening whistle, Ghana looked the more dominant team. The Black Stars, under the leadership of coach Otto Addo, controlled much of the first half, creating several goal-scoring opportunities. Ghana’s attack was driven by the skill and creativity of players like Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams, who consistently tested Niger’s defense.
The first real chance of the game came just three minutes in, when Kudus met an inviting cross from Abdul Fatawu with a strong header. However, Niger’s goalkeeper Abiboulaye Hainikoye comfortably saved the attempt, setting the tone for a frustrating evening for Ghana.
Ghana continued to apply pressure throughout the first half, enjoying significant possession. Despite Niger launching a few attacks of their own, they failed to test Lawrence Ati-Zigi in the Ghanaian goal. It was only a matter of time before the Black Stars found their breakthrough.
ALSO READ: Ghana’s AFCON 2025 Qualification in Jeopardy After Disappointing 1-1 Draw Against Niger
Alidu Seidu Opens the Scoring for Ghana
Just before halftime, Ghana finally made their dominance count. In the 44th minute, Alidu Seidu, the Clermont Foot defender, scored a stunning goal to give Ghana a deserved 1-0 lead. Seidu, who had been solid in defense, ventured forward and unleashed a powerful shot from just outside the box that flew past Hainikoye, giving the Niger goalkeeper no chance.
Seidu’s goal was not only his first for the national team but also a crucial one that seemed to put Ghana on course for a comfortable win. The Black Stars entered the halftime break full of confidence, knowing they were in control of the match.
Second-Half Chances Missed by Ghana
Ghana started the second half with the same intensity, looking to extend their lead. Early in the half, Mohammed Kudus was once again at the heart of the action, as he was set up brilliantly by Inaki Williams inside the box. However, Hainikoye produced a fine save to deny the Ajax midfielder, keeping Niger in the game.
Hainikoye continued to be a thorn in Ghana’s side, pulling off another crucial save in the 61st minute when Williams had a chance to double Ghana’s advantage. The Athletic Bilbao forward broke free in the box and unleashed a shot, but the Niger goalkeeper stood firm to keep the scoreline at 1-0.
These missed opportunities proved costly for Ghana, as Niger grew in confidence as the match wore on. Despite Ghana’s dominance, the Black Stars were unable to find that all-important second goal, leaving the door open for Niger to stage a late comeback.
Oumar Sako Strikes Late for Niger
As the clock ticked toward the final 10 minutes, Niger began to push forward in search of an equalizer. Coach Ezzaki Badou introduced Moussa Moudou as a substitute in the 64th minute, a move that would prove decisive for Niger.
In the 81st minute, Moudou made an impact by providing the assist for Oumar Sako’s equalizer. A cross from Moudou found Sako in the box, and the Niger defender rose highest to head the ball past Ati-Zigi, leveling the score at 1-1.
It was a moment of heartbreak for Ghana, who had controlled much of the game but were undone by a late lapse in concentration.
The equalizer sent Niger’s players and fans into celebration, while Ghana was left to rue their missed chances earlier in the match. Despite a late push from the Black Stars to regain their lead, Niger held on for the draw.
Ghana’s Next AFCON Qualifying Test Against Sudan
Ghana will now have to regroup and focus on their next AFCON 2025 qualifying match against Sudan, scheduled for October 7. With just one point from their opening game, the Black Stars will need to secure a victory to keep their hopes of qualifying for the tournament alive.
Coach Otto Addo will likely make adjustments to ensure his team performs better in their upcoming fixtures. While Ghana displayed flashes of brilliance against Niger, they will need to be more clinical in front of goal and maintain their defensive discipline for the full 90 minutes if they are to avoid further setbacks in their campaign.
Ghana’s 1-1 draw with Niger in their opening AFCON 2025 qualifier was a frustrating result for the Black Stars, who dominated much of the game but were undone by a late equalizer. As Ghana prepares for their next match against Sudan, coach Otto Addo will need to address the team’s missed chances and defensive lapses to get their campaign back on track.
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