AFCON Qualifiers: Angola vs Ghana Preview

The Palancas Negras of Angola will welcome the Black Stars of Ghana to the Estadio de 11 Novembre for a crucial AFCON qualifier.

Angola are on top of Group F with 12 points as they have perfect record in the qualifiers. Meanwhile the Black Stars of Ghana are languishing at the bottom of the table with just two points after four games and may miss out on the AFCON if they fail to beat Angola.

FORM GUIDE

Pedro Goncalves’ men are unbeaten in their last 12 games across competitions showcasing how resilient they are at the back and how clinical their attackers are. In their last five game across all competitions, Angola have won all. They have scored 11 goal in their last five games and have conceded just a goal. In the same period, they have scored more than two goals against their opponents whenever they play at home.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars of Ghana have been poor in recent games especially on away grounds. Though they beat Mali in Bamako in the World Cup qualifiers, they have only won one away game in two years. Across all competitions, they have won one game in their last five games; beating Central African Republic 4-3 at home. Since then, the Stars have lost twice and drawn twice. They have conceded 7 goals and scored 5 goals.

HEAD TO HEAD

The two nations first met in 11th November 1982 where the Black Stars beat Angola 2-1. Since the, the two nations have become familiar foes. In their nine meetings, Ghana have won 4 times while Angola have won two times. Two of the games have ended in a draw. Angola beat Ghana 1-0 in the last meeting at Kumasi. Interestingly, any country that wins this fixture wins by just a goal margin.

WHAT THE COACHES ARE SAYING

Head Coach for the Palancas Negras of Angola, Pedro Goncalves believes it will be difficult for the Black Stars of Ghana to qualify for the AFCON 2025.

“Ghana is certainly a top contender, but I feel that, at the moment, their chances of qualifying are very low. It doesn’t only depend on them but also on Sudan, who just need a point from two matches to qualify. So, it will be a very difficult task for Ghana.”  He said.

Meanwhile, Ghana coach Otto Addo, says this is the  time for Ghana to win their first game in the qualifiers.

“I’m looking forward to that game. It’s time for our first victory in this competition. I think it’s a great opportunity to keep the chance alive.” He said.

TEAM NEWS

Ghana will be without some of their key players including Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo and Tariq Lamptey. However, the likes of Jordan Ayew and Mohammed Kudus have what it takes to cause problems for Angola.

Angola’s skipper, Freddy will be playing his 60th cap for Angola with the likes of Zini also available for the clash.

MATCH DETAILS

Venue: Estadio 11 de November, Luanda

Kick Off Time: 17:00GMT

Date: Friday, November 15, 2024