Young striker Jerry Afriyie marked his Black Stars debut with a memorable goal, but Ghana fell to a 2-1 defeat after conceding a stoppage-time winner to Niger in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
The 17-year-old, who plays for third-tier side Thoughts FC, came off the bench and scored a stunning equaliser to cancel out Niger's opener at the Accra Sports Stadium. Mohammed Kudus missed a late penalty to tie the game for the Black Stars.
His well-taken strike was a highlight in an otherwise disappointing match for Ghana, showcasing his talent and justifying his late inclusion.
Afriyie’s goal capped off an impressive year for the teenager, following his golden boot-winning performance at the WAFU B Championship and a gold medal with the U-20 team at the African Games in March.
Despite the loss, his emergence is a bright spot in an otherwise lacklustre campaign, as Ghana managed just three goals in six qualifiers.
Niger’s late winner compounded Ghana’s woes, as the team finished bottom of Group F. Coach Otto Addo, under intense scrutiny, broke protocol to celebrate Afriyie’s goal—a testament to the youngster’s potential and the spark he brought to an otherwise dismal outing.
Afriyie’s debut offers hope as the Black Stars look to rebuild after failing to qualify for the AFCON.
This guy! Jerry Afriyie scores on his Black Stars debut.#MaxTV | #BlackStars pic.twitter.com/p9rtUvc2sE
— Max TV Ghana (@maxtvgh) November 18, 2024