2025 AFCONQ: Ghana deserves a better pitch – Angola coach

-

Angola head coach, Pedro Goncalves, has voiced his disappointment over the poor condition of the Baba Yara Stadium pitch.

The Portuguese coach shared his concerns after the Palancras Negras’ narrow 1-0 win over Ghana in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on Thursday.

Both teams struggled with the substandard playing surface throughout the match, and Goncalves commented, “A country like Ghana deserves a better pitch.”

The condition of the pitch had already been a topic of debate in the lead-up to the game.

Despite controlling much of the game, Ghana conceded a late goal after a defensive error by Abdul Mumin, allowing Angola to take all three points.

Angola now turns its focus to the next qualifier against Sudan, who recently defeated Niger.

Meanwhile, Ghana will aim to recover in their upcoming match against Niger in Berkane on Monday, September 9.

However, it remains unknown whether the Black Stars will continue to play home games at the Baba Yara Stadium.