VIDEO: Watch highlights of Ghana's drab draw against Sudan
11th October 2024
Ghana's Black Stars were held to a 0-0 draw against Sudan in a hard-fought 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday.
Despite dominating possession, Ghana struggled to convert their chances, leaving them in third place in their qualifying group with just two points after three matches.
Head coach Otto Addo included Atalanta's Ibrahim Sulemana in his starting lineup, with a front trio of Ernest Nuamah, Jordan Ayew, and Antoine Semenyo.
The backline featured Alidu Seidu, Gideon Mensah, Alexander Djiku, and Mohammed Salisu.
The Black Stars came close to scoring early, with Alexander Djiku's 4th-minute header from a Mohammed Kudus free-kick rattling the crossbar.
Sudan's goalkeeper, Mohamed Mustafa Ahmed, made several crucial saves, including a brilliant stop to deny Semenyo in the 17th minute.
Kudus continued to threaten throughout the match but was unable to beat Mustafa, who delivered an exceptional performance between the posts.
Ghana’s best opportunity came in the 88th minute, but Mustafa once again came to Sudan’s rescue, saving a close-range effort from Kudus on the goal line to secure a point for his team.
Ghana now faces a must-win situation in the return leg against Sudan on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benina, Libya, as they fight to keep their AFCON qualification hopes alive.
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