Ghana coach, Otto Addo, has acknowledged that his team faces a tough challenge in their upcoming match against already-qualified Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The Black Stars, who are still in search of their first win in the ongoing campaign, will travel to face Palancras Negras at the Estádio 11 de Novembro for Matchday 5.
After completing their training session on Thursday, Addo spoke to the Ghana FA website, stating that despite Angola’s AFCON qualification, he expects a tough and closely contested match against the team coached by Pedro Gonçalves.
“Yeah, these are difficult games. You can’t take it for granted that they will play, let’s say, 50 per cent or so. I know that they (Angola) will be 100 per cent ready. It’s going to be difficult, it’s an away game. It’s going to be very, very tight, I know,” he said.
The coach also expressed confidence in his players’ mental readiness, emphasizing that the time has come for Ghana to secure their first win in the qualifiers to keep their hopes of qualification alive.
“But I think mentally the boys are ready. I’m looking forward to that game. It’s time for our first victory in this competition. I think it’s a great opportunity to keep the chance alive.”
The match is set to kick off at 19:00 GMT.
Currently, Ghana sits 4th in Group F with only two points from four matches. However, the Black Stars’ hopes of qualifying remain intact after Niger’s 4-0 win over Sudan on Thursday.
To advance, Ghana must win their remaining games against Angola and Niger, while also hoping for a Sudan defeat to Angola.