Niger thrashed Sudan on Thursday, but the result was celebrated more in Ghana, as it gives the Black Stars hope of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Ghana, with no wins in four matches, must win their remaining two games against Angola and Niger and hope that Sudan loses their last match.
Sudan suffered a huge defeat in Togo, where they were humbled 4-0 by Niger, who also revived their own qualification hopes. Niger completely dominated, with goals from forward Daniel Sosah, who scored twice and has Ghanaian heritage, as well as one goal each from Ousseini Badamassi and Youssef Oumarou.
The win blows the group wide open. While Angola has already qualified, Thursday’s win by Niger means Sudan, Niger, and Ghana all still have a chance of securing the group’s second qualifying spot.
However, Sudan still have their destiny in their own hands and hold an advantage since just one point from their last game against Angola would seal qualification. Ghana must beat Angola on Friday evening, then defeat Niger, and hope for a favor from Angola to beat Sudan. Meanwhile, Niger must beat Ghana in their final game and also hope for Angola to beat Sudan.
Despite the heavy loss, Sudan won’t be pressing the panic button, as their destiny is still firmly in their hands. They will play Angola at Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya, where they enjoy strong support from fans who can easily cross borders to attend.
Ghana needs victories and a bit of a miracle, making the task even more difficult. Although many have given up, coach Otto Addo and his players are determined to fight to the end. Failure to qualify would mark Ghana’s first absence from the tournament since 2004.