Ghana Captain Jordan Ayew scored a wonderful free-kick, but it wasn’t enough for the Black Stars as they were held 1-1 by Angola.
This means that the Black Stars are at the bottom of Group F with three points after five matches, and it will be the first time Ghana has missed an AFCON since 2004.
Angola, who have already qualified, maintain the lead at the top with 13 points, while Sudan are second with seven. Niger are third with four points.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo made some significant changes in his starting lineup, with Razak Simpson and Michael Baidoo handed their first starting roles.
First-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was dropped to the bench, with Abdul Manaf Nurudeen starting in the goal post.
The Palancas Negras of Angola started the game on the front foot, controlling affairs in all departments of the game.
Angola had the first chance of the game, but Milson couldn’t direct his header on target as the ball sailed wide.
The Black Stars grew in confidence as the game progressed, with Issahaku Fatawu looking lively upfront.
Jordan Ayew broke the deadlock for Ghana in the 18th minute with a long-range free kick, which stunned Angola’s goalkeeper Neblu.
There was incessant pressure from Angola on the Black Stars defence, but Razak Simpson marshalled the Ghana defence, who stood resolute.
The Black Stars were able to weather the late storm of pressure from the Angolans and held on firmly to their lead into halftime.
Angola looked the more dangerous side after recess and continued to pummelled the Black Stars goal area with numerous shots.
The Black Stars of Ghana seemed to be content with the defensive attack but most often staged some counter-attacks, which were unsuccessful.
The pressure from the Angolans paid off as Zini headed home from close range to restore parity with a quarter of the game left to be played.
The Black Stars seemed to be deflated after conceding the goal, but Ransford Yeboah nearly put them ahead, but his effort was saved by the Angolan goalkeeper.
Mohammed Kudus, who was having a bad game, had an opportunity to put the Black Stars ahead, but his effort from close range went wide.
The Black Stars couldn’t score the goal that would revive their hopes of qualification as they were sent packing before their last match against Niger
Black Stars Starting XI: Abdul Manaf (GK), Alidu Seidu, Razak Simpson, Kingsley Schindler, Fatawu Issahaku, Elisha Owusu, Micheal Baidoo, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus
GNA
