By Ghana’s national soccer team, despite its star-studded lineup, continued to struggle in 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying on Monday, managing only a 1-1 draw against lower-ranked Niger in Berkane, Morocco.
The Black Stars, four-time African champions, took the lead through defender Alidu Seidu’s deflected shot just before halftime. However, Niger’s Oumar Sako equalized in the 81st minute, capitalizing on a corner kick.
This result follows Ghana’s surprising 1-0 home loss to Angola last week, leaving fans and pundits bewildered given the team’s formidable roster featuring several English Premier League players.
“We’re obviously disappointed,” Ghana coach Otto Addo said. “With the talent we have, we should be performing better. We need to regroup and find solutions quickly.”
In Group B, Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked team, narrowly avoided an upset against Lesotho. Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz scored the lone goal in the 93rd minute, securing a 1-0 victory in Agadir.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui made strategic substitutions in the second half, bringing on Diaz, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Hakim Ziyech. The trio combined for the winning goal, with Ziyech’s cross finding En-Nesyri, who set up Diaz for the decisive strike.
“Lesotho gave us a tough challenge,” Regragui said. “These matches are crucial for our preparation as AFCON hosts.”
Elsewhere, Senegal bounced back from a disappointing draw in their opener, edging Burundi 1-0 in Lilongwe, Malawi. Ismaila Sarr converted a contested penalty in the 71st minute after star player Sadio Mane was injured in a controversial incident.
Uganda took control of Group K, defeating Congo 2-0 in Kampala with goals from Aziz Kayondo and Jude Ssemugabi.
The 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign continues to produce surprises, with traditional powerhouses facing unexpected challenges from determined underdogs.
