By Simon Asare, GNA
Accra, March 27, GNA – The Black Stars of Ghana suffered a heavy setback in their World Cup preparations on Friday, falling 5-1 to Austria in an international friendly at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna.
The match formed part of Ghana’s buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but Otto Addo’s side were outplayed for long spells by an Austrian team that showed more sharpness and attacking precision.
Ghana coach Addo made several rotations, handing goalkeeper Lawrence AtiZigi a rare start ahead of number one goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, while retaining experienced players Thomas Partey, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Jordan Ayew and Antoine Semenyo in the starting lineup.
Austria took the lead in the 13th minute when midfielder Marcel Sabitzer calmly converted from the penalty spot.
Despite the early setback, the Black Stars produced a balanced first-half display but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities, with AtiZigi making a series of saves to keep the deficit at one at halftime.
Ghana returned from the interval seeking an equalizer, but Austria doubled their advantage in the 51st minute when forward Michael Gregoritsch finished from close range after a sweeping move that split Ghana’s defence.
The Black Stars looked increasingly vulnerable at the back, and Austria added a third eight minutes later when defender Stefan Posch rose unchallenged to head home from a corner.
Otto Addo responded with multiple substitutions in a bid to stabilise the side and inject energy into the attack.
Ghana Captain Jordan Ayew pulled one back for Ghana in the 77th minute, finishing a move created after sustained pressure.
However, Austria quickly restored their threegoal cushion. Substitute Carney Chukwuemeka capped a wellworked team move to make it 4-1, punishing Ghana for another lapse in midfield.
Nicholas Seiwald completed the rout in stoppage time, slotting home Austria’s fifth goal in the 92nd minute as the hosts finished strongly.
Ghana would seek to rebound when they face Germany in another friendly on Monday, March 30, as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade