Angola’s national football team ended Ghana’s 24-year unbeaten run at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium with a hard-fought 1-0 victory on the night of September 5, 2024. The Black Stars, renowned for its formidable home record, were handed their first loss at the Kumasi-based stadium since 2000 in a thrilling African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match.
The match started on an intense note, with both sides showcasing a blend of tactical discipline and attacking prowess. The Angolan team, often considered underdogs on Ghanaian soil, capitalized on their opportunities, holding off the Black Stars’ pressure for most of the game.
In the injury time of 90+3 minutes, Angola’s striker Mendes Felicio Joao Milson found the back of the net, leaving Ghana’s defense and goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi helpless. The goal sent shockwaves through the stadium, silencing the previously boisterous home crowd.
Despite a series of attempts by the Black Stars to equalize, Angola’s defense, led by their captain Bastos, remained resolute, frustrating Ghana’s attack, which saw notable contributions from Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams. Several missed opportunities and a solid performance from Angolan goalkeeper Hugo Marques compounded the Black Stars’ woes.
This defeat marks the first time in over two decades that Ghana has been beaten at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. The Black Stars have enjoyed a rich history of dominance at the venue, which has seen them clinch multiple victories during crucial qualifiers and tournaments. The loss has raised concerns about the team’s current form, especially with the upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers fast approaching.
With this defeat, Ghana now faces added pressure in their next AFCON qualifier matches, as they aim to secure a spot in the 2025 tournament. The Black Stars will have to regroup quickly and re-energize their campaign to bounce back from this disappointing loss.
For Angola, the win boosts their morale and serves as a confidence-building result in their quest for AFCON qualification. Fans will now look forward to seeing how both teams perform in the upcoming fixtures as the race for a place in Morocco 2025 heats up.
The Black Stars will face Niger on Monday, September 9, 2024, in Morocco.
Match Stats:
- Score: Ghana 0-1 Angola
- Ball Possession: Ghana 52% : 48% Angola
- Goal Scorer: Mendes Felicio Joao Milson (90+3’)
- Venue: Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Kumasi, Ghana
- Attendance: 40,000+ spectators
- Yellow Cards: Ghana 2 : 2 Angola
