Match Report: Ghana fail to secure early qualification after draw in Madagascar

Ghana finds themselves in a precarious position as they head into their final match against the Central African Republic.

Securing a qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Ivory Coast now hinges on avoiding defeat, following their inability to secure a victory in the previous match against Madagascar, resulting in a goalless draw.

Madagascar, playing without pressure, delivered an impressive performance in front of their home supporters in Antananarivo. Their spirited display earned them a well-deserved point and delayed Ghana’s qualification until the last matchday.

Throughout the game, the four-time African champions struggled to find their rhythm and failed to pose a significant threat to Madagascar’s solid defense, which managed to maintain a clean sheet, their first in the qualifiers.

In his third game at the helm of the Black Stars, Chris Hughton opted for the experience of Andre Ayew and Jordan Ayew in the attacking line, supported by the in-form Joseph Paintsil and Kamaldeen Sulemana. This decision meant that Mohammed Kudus, the attacking midfielder, had to settle for a place on the bench.

However, Ghana’s attacking prowess faltered, resulting in only two shots on target despite their dominance in possession. The closest they came to scoring was through Thomas Partey’s well-struck free-kick at the Mahamasina Municipal Stadium.

The draw has left Group E wide open, with three teams still vying for qualification. Currently, Ghana leads with 9 points, followed closely by Angola with 8 points and the Central African Republic with 7 points.

In the upcoming September fixtures, Ghana must either secure a victory or a draw against the Central African Republic at home.

Meanwhile, Angola could secure their qualification with a draw in their final game against Madagascar. As for the Central African Republic, they must secure a victory against Ghana to secure their place in the tournament.