Ghana edges closer to 2025 AFCON exit after 2-0 loss to Sudan: Five key things we learned

Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations are hanging by a thread following a damaging 2-0 defeat to Sudan at the Benina Martyrs Stadium in Benghazi.

This loss has not only jeopardized the Black Stars’ chances of reaching the tournament for the first time in two decades but also exposed several critical flaws within the team.

Here are five key takeaways from the match:Qualification Hopes FadingGhana’s road to the Africa Cup of Nations has taken a severe hit with this latest defeat. The Black Stars now have only two points from four matches, putting them in serious danger of missing out on the tournament for the first time in 20 years.

With two games remaining, against Angola and Niger, the team must win both while hoping Sudan drops points in their remaining fixtures. The margin for error is non-existent.Defensive Mistakes Prove CostlyGhana’s defensive vulnerabilities were glaring in this match, leading directly to both of Sudan’s goals.

Key defenders Alidu Seidu and Gideon Mensah were unable to properly deal with routine threats, allowing Sudan’s Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud and Mohammed Abdelrahman to pounce. These costly defensive lapses have been a recurring issue throughout the qualifiers, further complicating Ghana’s bid for qualification.

Lack of Attacking EdgeDespite having a wealth of attacking talent, including Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams, Ghana’s offense lacked spark and creativity. The team managed only one shot on target throughout the match, underscoring their inability to break down Sudan’s defense.

Williams did score a goal in the second half, but it was disallowed for offside, adding to the team’s frustrations. Without sharper finishing and more incisive play in the final third, Ghana’s path to qualification looks increasingly difficult.

Coach Otto Addo Under PressureThe defeat has placed coach Otto Addo in the hot seat, with mounting criticism over his tactical approach. The team’s failure to adjust to Sudan’s game plan raises questions about his decision-making and leadership.

With two crucial matches ahead, Addo faces immense pressure to inspire a turnaround and reinvigorate the squad. A failure to qualify could have serious implications for his tenure. Key Players Must Step UpThe pressure is now firmly on Ghana’s key players, particularly Mohammed Kudus, who has struggled to replicate his best form.

As one of the team’s most talented individuals, Kudus is expected to lead by example and lift the team’s attacking play. However, with little cohesion and a reliance on individual moments of brilliance, the entire squad will need to step up if they are to salvage their qualifying campaign.

Ghana’s chances of reaching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations are dwindling, and with time running out, the team must find solutions quickly to avoid a historic failure.