Ghana’s Black Stars suffered a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Austria in pre-world cup friendly played at the Ernst Happel Stadion in Vienna, the capital of Austria.
The game, being the Black Stars’ first outing in 2026, started with an early setback and disappointment for the millions of Ghanaians, hoping to enjoy some good football from Otto Addo’s team.
The Black Stars conceded the first goal in just the 12th minute from a Marcel Sabitzer penalty after Austrian defender Kevin Danso’s header hit the hand of Jonas Adjetey in Ghana’s penalty box.
The Austrians dominated the first half with 22-year-old Ghanaian attacker Prince Kwabena Adu showing some strength and creating a chance of two from some long balls.
The scoreline remained 1-0 for the first half after a brilliant save from Ati Zigi, keeping Ghana in the game.
Austria returned to the second half with coach Ralph Ragnick, making five half-time substitutions that saw a goalkeeper and four outfield players brought in.
Ghana remained unchanged for the start of the second half but conceded again in the 51st minute after Marcel Sabitzer pounced on a mistake by makeshift right back Caleb Yirenkyi assisting striker Michael Gregoritsch to give the Austrian and two-goal lead.
Matters got worse for Ghana 8 minutes later when Austrian defender Stefan Posch scored from a corner kick.
Coach Otto Addo finally made substitutions in the 69th minute, giving debuts to right back Marvin Senaya and center back Patric Pfeiffer.
The substitutions seemed to inject some energy into Ghana’s team and disrupt their European opponents, resulting in a consolation for the Black Stars from captain Jordan Ayew after some solo work in the box.
Austria quickly took back the steering wheel and scored a 4th goal after substitute Carney Chukwuemeka finished off a beautiful one-two with Marcel Sabitzer.
Defensive midfielder Nicolas Seiwad completed the riot for the Austrians in additional time, giving the Europeans an emphatic victory over their Ghanaian opponents.
The Black Stars will now face Germany on Monday in Stuttgart, while Austria faces South Korea on Monday as well.
