The Black Stars of Ghana suffered a disappointing draw against Niger in their second 2025 AFCON qualifying match, held at the Stade Municipal de Berkane, after relinquishing a slender lead.
Alidu Seidu’s stunning first-half goal was cancelled out by Oumar Sako’s 81st-minute equaliser, leaving Ghana without a win in their second attempt.
Despite dominating possession, the team’s performance was underwhelming, prompting a critical assessment of the players’ display.
Here is how the Black Stars were rated.
Lawrence Ati Zigi – 5: The shot-stopper was having just a decent game until another lethargic show by the defence saw him concede. He needs to
Tariq Lamptey – 6: Was all over the right flank stopping counter-attacks and surging forward with dangerous runs.
Alidu Seidu – 8: Failed to do the simple things from the beginning but redeemed himself with a well-taken goal. A strike that set the pace for a good performance.
Mohammed Salisu – 7: The Monaco defender was just okay with winning duels and starting the attacks from the back but misplaced a few passes which could have created good chances.
Abdul Mumin – 5: He showed confidence despite his blunder in the previous game. The Rayo Vallecano centre-back showed promise but he failed to coordinate with his teammates as Ghana conceded again.
Thomas Partey – 6: His experience was evident and buttressed that with some great audacious passes while maintaining possession. But lost crucial balls due to over-elaboration.
Majeed Ashimeru – 6: Ghana’s bright spot in midfield. His ball-carrying abilities came into play once more but it was not enough to get Ghana the win.
Mohammed Kudus – 6.5: The West Ham United star struggled again owing to the excellent man-marking strategy by the Nigeriens. However, the 24-year-old tried to impact the game with individual brilliance and effectively set up Alidu Seidu for Ghana’s only goal.
Fatawu Issahaku – 5: It was a game that saw the youngster toil failing to serve fans with his trademark runs on the flanks.
Antoine Semenyo – 5.5: Was a good holder of the ball but did little to appear productive. His efforts were not enough to sharpen the attack of the Black Stars
Inaki Williams – 6: The striker continues to chase for a second international goal for Ghana as his closest chance missed the target by inches. His positional play complemented the attack but the desired goal has delayed again.
Brandon Thomas-Asante – 4: Showed determination but only little to impact the game
Jordan Ayew – 4: Starting from the bench didn’t work for the new Leicester City man who also failed to help the defence.
Elisha Owusu – 4: Tried to to continue from where Ashimeru left off but was not innovative to help the attack when it mattered.
