The Black Stars’ hopes of rekindling their bid for a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations were dashed by their failure to secure a win against Sudan.
Ghana’s search for their first qualifying win came to a 0-0 draw at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, October 10.
The team failed to capitalise on some chances given to them in the second half and their return to Accra was less than stellar.
Coach Otto Addo named a strong starting eleven for the third qualifying matchday, with Mohamed Kudus wearing the captain’s armband in the absence of Thomas Partey.
Abdul Mumin returns to the bench in place of the returning Alexander Zik, Tariq Lamptey replaces Alidou Seidou at right-back and Gideon Mensah is included in the squad.
Atalanta midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana was allowed to start for the first time as a Black Stars player.
Ernest Nuama, Jordan Ayew and Antoine Semenyo completed the line-up.
Ghana made an almost perfect start in the opening minutes, but Alexander Ziku’s shot was deflected wide of the goal.
The team continued to create chances, but scoring was an issue and the first half ended scoreless.
Addo’s team returned from holiday and played one of their best first halves since his return.
Semenyo should have scored from close range in the second half and Kudus and substitute Inaki Williams also came close to sealing the victory for Ghana but were unlucky to have their efforts saved.
The match finished 0-0, with Ghana’s chances gone after three matches.
After Thursday’s draw, the Black Stars have two points from three matches.
They now head to Libya for the second leg against Sudan knowing that a win could see them finish second in Group F.
