On Sunday, June 18, the Black Stars were held scoreless by Madagascar in their penultimate 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match.
In a game where many expected the team to shine, there was no inspiration and no vitality in an attack that appeared lifeless despite controlling the tempo of the match.
In the early phases of the game, the Black Stars dominated possession but were unable to advance into the opponent's penalty area.
In the 18th minute, Kamaldeen Sulemana attempted Ghana's first chance on goal, but his attempt to curl the ball into the far post went just wide.
Thereafter, opportunities increased for Chris Hugton's team. After 24 minutes, Joseph Paintsil's shot from outside the penalty area went well over the crossbar.
Despite being presented with numerous set-piece opportunities in the first half, Ghana failed to capitalize on them.
No goals were scored in the first half, and neither team was able to take a shot on goal.
The Madagascar custodian parried away a well-executed free kick by Thomas Partey in the 55th minute following the halftime break.
Minutes after entering the game, Mohammed Kudus appeared to be trying for the spectacular, but his shot, like the previous ones, went over the crossbar.
The first shot on target did not occur until the 86th minute, while Madagascar recorded two within a minute.
Lawrence Ati-Zigi made a save on Ibrahim Amada's shot, and the ensuing corner kick shot was also denied by the St. Gallen goalkeeper.
Osman Bukari and Partey both attempted shots on goal for Ghana, but neither posed a significant threat to the home team, as the match ended scoreless.
Following Angola's 2-1 victory over Central African Republic (CAR) on Saturday, June 17, Ghana maintains its one-point lead at the summit of Group E.
The Black Stars will face CAR in their final qualifying series match in September as they attempt to qualify for the 2019 AFCON in Ivory Coast.