Austria Run Riot as Black Stars Suffer Heavy Friendly Defeat in Vienna
Ghana endured a difficult evening in Vienna as the Black Stars were comprehensively beaten 5-1 by Austria in an international friendly at the Ernst Happel Stadium.
Ghana started brightly, showing composure in possession and linking play effectively in the opening exchanges. However, the momentum shifted when Austria were awarded a penalty after a handball decision against Adjetey. Marcel Sabitzer stepped up and converted to give the hosts the lead.
Despite going behind, the Black Stars responded positively and created a few promising moments. Prince Adu caused problems with his movement, while Semenyo came close to equalising but fired over from close range.
Ati-Zigi was then called into action late in the first half, producing a fine save to keep the deficit at one before the break.
The game, however, slipped away from Ghana shortly after the restart. Michael Gregoritsch doubled Austria’s advantage with a simple finish, before Stefan Posch added a third moments later after being left unmarked.
Ghana attempted to respond, with Issahaku showing flashes of brilliance on a solo run, but his effort failed to trouble the goalkeeper.
Debutants Patric Pfeiffer and Marvin Senaya were introduced in the second half as Addo looked for solutions.
The Black Stars eventually found a breakthrough in the 76th minute when Jordan Ayew finished brilliantly after being set up by Ibrahim Sulemana.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished as Carney Chukwuemeka restored Austria’s three-goal cushion almost immediately, with Sabitzer again involved in the build-up.
Late chances fell to Kamaldeen Sulemana, who came close, but Austria had the final say, adding a fifth goal in stoppage time to seal a dominant victory.
For Ralf Rangnick and his side, it was a commanding display, while Ghana will be left to reflect on defensive lapses and missed opportunities as they continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
