The Black Stars of Ghana find themselves at the bottom of Group F in the ongoing qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a stunning turn of events on Thursday, November 14.

Niger secured an emphatic win against Sudan, shaking up the group standings and complicating Ghana’s path to qualification.

In a high-stakes encounter, Sudan only needed a draw against Niger to clinch their spot in the 2025 AFCON, effectively shutting the door on Ghana’s hopes.

However, the Sudanese side that dominated Ghana in a 2-0 defeat last month failed to replicate their form. Coach Kwesi Appiah’s team appeared lacklustre, unable to withstand the onslaught from Group F’s previous bottom side, Niger, who had yet to secure a single win in the qualifiers until today.

Niger delivered a stunning performance, overpowering Sudan with a commanding display. Daniel Sosah led the charge with a brace, while Youssef Oumarou and Ousseini Badamassi added a goal each, sealing a decisive 4-0 victory for the Nigeriens.

This impressive result marked their first win of the qualifiers and propelled them above Ghana in the Group F standings.

With Niger’s victory, the Black Stars now occupy the bottom spot in the group, a surprising and disappointing position for a team of Ghana’s pedigree.

Despite the setback, there is still a glimmer of hope for qualification. Ghana must secure back-to-back wins in their remaining matches against Angola and Niger.

Additionally, the team will be closely watching the next fixture, where Sudan faces off against Angola. A defeat for Sudan in that match could potentially keep Ghana’s AFCON dreams alive.

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