2023 AFCON Qualifiers: Ghana earn a point against Angola

By Daniel ODURO, Accra
The Black Stars of Ghana were held to a 1-1 draw in Luanda in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola on Monday.
The Stars chasing an early qualification to the tournament had to rally from a goal down after Angola took the lead through the penalty spot early in the second half.
A clumsy tackle by defender Daniel Amartey was deemed too strong by the center referee who pointed to the spot.
Lucas Joao elected himself and made no mistakes in beating Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi in the 51st minute.
The setback seemed to have galvanized the Black Stars who approached the remainder of the game with a lot more purpose and intent.
Missing and resting some of his key players such as Andre Ayew and Thomas Partey, Ghana coach Chris Hughton made some changes after going behind with Joseph Paintsil, Osman Bukari and Inaki Williams all coming on in the second halt.
The substitutions seemed to have paid off almost immediately as Osman Bukari who came on to replace Mohammed Kudus scored within minutes of his introduction.
The Black Stars, with momentum on their side could have won it in the late stages but missed chances from Inaki Willams and Joseph Paintsil cost them all three points.
Ghana, by this result, remains top of Group E with eight points from four games.
They are followed by Central Africa Republic who have seven points and Angola who have 5 points.
Madagascar are rooted at the bottom of the Group with one point from four games.