Vienna: 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.
According to Ghana News Agency, the match formed part of Ghana's buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, Otto Addo's side was outplayed for long spells by an Austrian team that exhibited more sharpness and attacking precision.
Ghana's coach, Otto Addo, made several rotations, handing goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi a rare start ahead of number one goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. The lineup retained experienced players such as Thomas Partey, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Jordan Ayew, and Antoine Semenyo. 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 managed a balanced first-half display but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Ati-Zigi made a series of saves to keep the deficit at one by halftime. However, upon returning from the interval seeking an equalizer, Ghana saw Austria double their advantage in the 51st minute. Forward Michael Gregoritsch finished from close range after a sweeping move that split Ghana's defense.
The Black Stars appeared increasingly vulnerable at the back, and Austria added a third goal 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 stabilize the side and inject energy into the attack.
Ghana's captain, Jordan Ayew, pulled one back for the team in the 77th minute, finishing a move created after sustained pressure. However, Austria quickly restored their three-goal cushion. Substitute Carney Chukwuemeka capped a well-worked 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 will seek to rebound when they face Germany in another friendly on Monday, March 30, as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 World Cup.