Austria delivered a commanding performance to defeat the Ghana national football team 5–1 in an international friendly against the Austria national football team on Friday evening.
The match, played at the Ernst Happel Stadion, formed part of Ghana’s preparations ahead of upcoming international assignments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Austria asserted early dominance and took the lead in the first half after a penalty was awarded when Kevin Danso’s header struck the hand of Jonas Adjei Adjetey inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot without hesitation, and Marcel Sabitzer calmly converted to put the hosts ahead. Ghana struggled to find rhythm but managed to contain further damage before halftime, heading into the break trailing by a single goal.
The hosts returned from the interval with renewed intensity and quickly tightened their grip on the match. Just six minutes into the second half, Michael Gregoritsch doubled Austria’s advantage, tapping home from Sabitzer’s precise square pass. Seven minutes later, Stefan Posch added a third after being left unmarked at the back post, exposing Ghana’s defensive frailties.
Ghana nearly responded when Abdul Fatawu Issahaku embarked on an impressive solo run, beating two defenders, but his final effort sailed off target. Head coach Otto Addo introduced Patric Pfeiffer and Marvin Senaya in the 69th minute, handing both players their Black Stars debuts.
Captain Jordan Ayew briefly lifted Ghana’s hopes in the 76th minute, finishing brilliantly after being set up by substitute Ibrahim Sulemana to reduce the deficit. However, Austria restored their commanding lead almost immediately, with Carney Chukwuemeka finding the net following another assist from the influential Sabitzer.
Austria added further pressure late on to complete an emphatic 5–1 victory, with their clinical finishing and swift attacking transitions proving too much for the Black Stars throughout the second half.
The heavy defeat highlights defensive issues Ghana must address as the technical team continues to evaluate the squad ahead of competitive fixtures. Despite the setback, the friendly offered valuable match experience and tactical lessons as the Black Stars continue their rebuilding process under Otto Addo.
