Morocco and Senegal Secure Wins as Ghana Struggles in AFCON ...

Ghana’s struggles in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers continued on Monday as they conceded a late goal to draw 1-1 against Niger in a Group F match held in Berkane, Morocco. Defenders scored both goals, with Ghana’s Alidu Seidu opening the scoring in the 44th minute before Oumar Sako equalised for Niger in the 81st minute.

In Group B, Morocco needed a 93rd-minute goal from Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz to secure a 1-0 victory over Lesotho in Agadir. Despite being heavy underdogs and ranked 135 places below Morocco, Lesotho put up a stubborn defense, nearly pulling off a shock result.

Ghana, four-time AFCON champions, are now winless in their first two qualifiers, following a 1-0 loss to Angola last week. Despite fielding a star-studded lineup that includes Premier League players like Tariq Lamptey, Thomas Partey, and Mohammed Kudus, the Black Stars failed to secure maximum points.

Morocco, already qualified for AFCON 2025 as hosts, are using the qualifiers for competitive practice. Coach Walid Regragui made key substitutions in the second half, bringing on Diaz, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Hakim Ziyech, who combined to secure the win.

In Group L, Senegal managed a 1-0 win over Burundi, thanks to a 71st-minute penalty converted by Ismaila Sarr. The penalty, awarded after Sadio Mane was injured during a wild clearance, was hotly contested by Burundi.

Meanwhile, Uganda went top of Group K with a 2-0 victory over Congo Brazzaville, with goals from Aziz Kayondo and Jude Ssemugabi.