Log leaders, Ghana’s Black Stars played out a goalless game with Madagascar at Antananarivo on Sunday in round five of the 2023 African Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
Angola’s 2-1 away victory against Central Africa Republic meant Ghana have to beat Madagascar to stand any chance of progressing to the next stage of the competition.
Ghana were held to a goalless draw at the Mahamasina Municipal Stadium to blow the group wide open till the February last round of qualifiers.
Coach Chris Hughton commenced the game with Mohammed Kudus starting from the bench; Patrick Pozo was handed a first start in a Black Stars shirt at the absence of Gideon Mensah who had earlier been ruled out due to fitness.
Ati Zigi continued his place in poles, Joseph Aidoo and Daniel Amartey took charge of the central position and were flanked by Pozo and Denis Odoi on the left and right defense.
Salis Samed, Thomas Partey and André Ayew were in the middle of the park. Jordan Ayew led the attack, Joseph Paintsil and Kamaldeen Sulemana took charge of the right and left flanks of attack.
With a total of eight shots on goal, Ghana managed to put two on target and secured 62 percent of the possession.
Ghana continued to lead the log with nine points followed by Angola with eight and Central Africa Republic on third position with seven points. Madagascar secured their second points after five games.
Christ Hughton and his charges will have to avoid defeat in the last round of matches to stand any chance of qualifying.
Ghana will host Central Africa Republic and Angola play host to Madagascar in the last round of matches in September 2023 to determine the two nations making it to Cote D’Ivoire 2023.
