2022 World Cup qualifiers: Ethiopia to do a huge favor for South Africa?

Ethiopia might do South Africa a huge favor by hosting Ghana in a Group G Matchday 5 2022 World Cup Qualifier on Thursday 11 November 2021 at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

The game begins at 3 p.m. CAT.

Ghana enters the match in the second position in the rankings, behind leaders South Africa (who would play Zimbabwe at the neighboring FNB Stadium later that day) by only one point, and will be seeking a win to increase pressure on Bafana Bafana (with Ghana and SA set for a likely decisive clash in Cape Coast on Sunday 14 November).

Under returning coach Milovan Rajevac, the Black Stars won back-to-back games against Zimbabwe in October, however, the Serbian has had to explain his decision to put Roma’s 18-year-old Felix Afena-Gyan into the preliminary squad.

“I trust the people from AS Roma and [Jose] Mourinho is a renowned coach, he’s recognized for his successes in his career, [and] if they’re assured to give him an opportunity, [then] we feel he’s excellent for the Black Stars,” Rajevac stated.

“For example, [in their] most recent encounter, he played against AC Milan and came in in the second half, and if they feel [he’s excellent for chances], we believe as well.”

“He’s a young player with a lot of potential, and based on his performance, he’s a promising talent.” So why shouldn’t we be confident in him?”

Meanwhile, Ethiopia was defeated at home and away by South Africa last month, therefore eliminating them from contention for the top berth. They might still play a significant role in this match by snatching points away from Ghana, and coach Wubetu Abate has picked a quality side, featuring top scorer Getaneh Kebede and important midfielder Shimeles Bekele.

Ethiopia and Ghana have played five times since 1963. The Black Stars have four victories against the Walia Ibex’s one, with no games drawn. The sides played on Matchday 1 in September, with Ghana winning 1-0 at home due to a goal from midfielder Mubarak Wakaso.