Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has expressed confidence in his squad, emphasising their strong mental focus ahead of their must-win Group F 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Angola.

The Black Stars will take on the Palancas Negras today, Friday, November 15, 2024, in Luanda, in what is seen as a decisive fixture for Ghana’s qualification hopes.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Addo acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead but said it time for his team to win their first game in the qualifying series.

“These are difficult games, and we cannot take them for granted or assume Angola will play at 50%,” he said, before adding, “I know they’ll give 100%. It’s an away game, and it’s going to be very, very tight.”

“But I think mentally, the boys are ready. We are looking forward to this game. It’s time for our first victory in this tournament, and I think it’s a great chance to keep our qualification hopes alive.”

The Black Stars’ chances received a slight boost after Group F opponents Niger thrashed Sudan 4-0 on Thursday, keeping Ghana’s hopes mathematically alive.

Ghana currently sits third in Group F with just two points from four matches.

To secure qualification, the Black Stars must win their remaining matches while Sudan lose their final game against Angola.

The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM in Luanda, Angola.