2025 AFCON Qualifiers: 'Disappointing' Black Stars held to a 1-1 draw by Niger

The Black Stars have been held to a 1-1 draw game in their second group of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Niger.

Ghana clash with the Super Eagles at the Stade Municipal de Berkane on Monday afternoon.

Otto Addo and his side having opened their campaign with a 1-0 home defeat against the Palancras Negras of Angola were hoping to secure their first win of the qualifiers.

Addo introduced Inaki Williams and Majeed Ashimeru to his lineup for the game. However, the Black Stars started the game on a good note in the early minutes, with Inaki Williams almost finding the back of the net.

The Black Stars subsequently struggled to create meaningful chances until Alidu Seidu's deflected shot in the 44th minute found the back of the net to end the first half 1-0 in favour of Ghana.

Lawrence Ati-Zigi was forced into a save in the 16th minute of the encounter as he parried away a long-range effort.

Mohammed Kudus also came close to getting on the scoresheet but his effort was also thwarted.

After the recess, the Nigeriens started strongly, creating problems for the Black Stars. Otto Addo's men however maintained their composure and they kept their hopes of doubling their lead.

The Black Stars struggled in their build-up against the Super Eagles. However, Kudus was close to doubling the lead after recess following a pass from Inaki Williams but the goalkeeper was on hand to deny the West Ham United star.

Minutes later, it was the Athletic Bilbao forward who burst forward after being played through by Mohammed Salisu.

However, his close-range shot with his weaker foot was pushed away by the opposition's goalkeeper.

With 10 minutes to go, Oumar Sako levelled the score for the Mena after a scramble in the Black Stars box. Niger, following their equaliser, held on to ensure the game ended 1-1.

The result means Ghana picked up just one point in their opening two games of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers which leave them at the 3rd spot in Group F.

The Black Stars will now prepare to face Kwesi Appiah's Sudan in the doubleheader in October.