Ghana Aims for Victory Against Niger to End Disappointing AFCON Qualification Campaign
Ghana will face Niger in a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, aiming to conclude their disappointing campaign with a win. Currently bottom of their group with three points, they are without several key players due to injuries. Niger, coming off a strong victory over Sudan, seeks to qualify with a favorable result. Historically, Ghana has dominated the rivalry but recent performances have raised concerns.
Ghana is set to face Niger in a crucial Group F qualifying match for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, with the match scheduled to kick-off at 6:00 PM CAT. The Black Stars are aiming to conclude their disappointing campaign on a high note, having struggled throughout with only one point from five matches, ranking them fourth in their group. The team will be without key players such as Jordan Ayew and Gideon Mensah due to injuries, necessitating several changes to the squad. Conversely, Niger is coming off a significant 4-0 victory against Sudan, which has bolstered their chances of qualification. They are currently placed third and will benefit greatly from a win over Ghana, especially if results in the other group match favor them. In light of their recent form, Ghana aims to improve after enduring a winless streak that has lasted five matches, which includes two losses and three draws. Coach Otto Addo expressed his concerns regarding the team’s performance, particularly their struggles in home fixtures, stating that winning at home is critical to competitive success in tournaments. On the opposing side, Niger’s coach Ezzaki Badou acknowledged Ghana’s historical strength but pointed out their current vulnerabilities, particularly in defense, which have led to goals conceded in crucial matches. Historically, Ghana maintains a dominant record against Niger, winning 11 out of 15 encounters, although the most recent match ended in a 1-1 draw.
The upcoming match between Ghana and Niger is a significant fixture within the context of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification process. Ghana’s football team, known as the Black Stars, has faced challenges during this qualifying campaign, resulting in their current fourth-place standing in Group F with only three points. Having drawn their last match against Angola, they are seeking to regroup and achieve a victory that could restore some pride. Niger’s recent performance, particularly their win against Sudan, has invigorated their ambitions for qualification, situating them third in the group. This match carries considerable implications not only for Ghana’s campaign but also for Niger’s prospects.
In summary, the upcoming encounter between Ghana and Niger is pivotal for both teams, particularly for Ghana, which seeks to redeem its disappointing qualifying run. Niger, fresh from a comprehensive victory, aims to capitalize on this momentum to secure a spot in the AFCON finals depending on other match outcomes. The clash promises intensity as both sides vie for essential points in their qualifying groups. As Ghana grapples with injuries and low morale, Niger will look to exploit the Black Stars’ struggles to advance in the tournament.
Original Source: supersport.com
