Ghana is set to host Sudan in the first leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying doubleheader at the Accra Sports Stadium later today.
Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 GMT.
The Black Stars are still seeking their first win in the qualifiers after a disappointing start, while Sudan is eager to bounce back after their recent loss.
Match Preview
Ghana’s campaign began on a low note when their 24-year unbeaten streak at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi was snapped by a 1-0 defeat to Angola.
This was followed by a 1-1 draw against Niger, despite taking the lead through Alidu Seidu just before half-time. A late equalizer from Oumar Sako of Niger cost Ghana the win in their second Group F game.
With just one point from two matches, Ghana currently sits third in the group, making today’s match against Sudan crucial for their qualification hopes.
A failure to secure a win could complicate their path to the 2025 AFCON, especially since only two matches will remain after this window.
Despite their struggles, Ghana will be confident playing at home, having never lost to Sudan in five previous encounters, recording four wins and a draw.
Sudan, meanwhile, started their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Niger but fell 2-1 to Angola in their second match. That defeat ended a four-game unbeaten streak in competitive matches, which included victories in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Sudan is currently second in Group F with three points, and they will be looking to build on that momentum under coach Kwesi Appiah, a former Ghana coach himself.
Sudan has shown strong away form recently, winning two consecutive World Cup qualifiers on the road before their loss to Angola. They will be hoping to improve on their 2010 AFCON qualifying result, where they earned a goalless draw in Ghana.
Form Guide
Ghana AFCON Qualifying Form: L D
Ghana Overall Form: L D W W L D
Sudan AFCON Qualifying Form: W L
Sudan Overall Form: W L W W W L
Team News
Ghana will be without several key players due to injuries, including Thomas Partey, Joseph Paintsil, Kingsley Schindler, and Osman Ibrahim.
Replacements include Abu Francis, Jonas Adjei Adjetey, Michael Baidoo, and Ibrahim Sadick. Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Kudus, and Abdul Fatawu are expected to lead the attack for Ghana.
In the absence of Partey, coach Otto Addo has confirmed that Kudus will captain the team.
Sudan welcomes back former Al Hilal star Eid Moghaddam and goalkeeper Ahmed Peter for this crucial tie.
Abo Eisa and Mustafa Karshom have both scored in the qualifiers, while striker Mohamed Abdelrahman will be eager to open his account against Ghana.
Remarks from coaches
Ahead of the match, Ghana coach Otto Addo urged his players to show passion and discipline.
“There are many things I have to think about. We have to show passion and also defensive discipline so that we will be ready for everything. I will address the issues we have because if we don’t we will always concede a goal. I’m very happy with what I’ve seen with the players and hopefully, we don’t have that phase again.”
Sudan’s assistant coach Ignatius Osei-Fosu expressed his desire to secure qualification.
“Kwesi Appiah has nothing to prove. His coaching credentials are there for all to see. For me, nobody even knows I’m the assistant coach of Sudan.
“We just want to qualify and that’s the aim. It’s just unfortunate we have to face Ghana. I wish this match didn’t happen,” he said.
Predicted Lineups
Ghana (4-3-3): Ati-Zigi, Seidu, Salisu, Djiku, Lamptey; Owusu, Ashimeru, Fatawu, Kudus, Williams, Ayew
Sudan (4-2-3-1): Abou, Agab, Koko, Karshoum, Khamis; Abuaagla, Khidir, Eisa, Omer, Thierry, Abdelrahman
Prediction
Ghana 2-1 Sudan
The Black Stars are expected to edge Sudan in a close match, with home advantage playing a key role.
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