Austria defeated Ghana in a lop-sided friendly encounter at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna with Marcel Sabitzer the star of the show, scoring a goal and bagging an assist in a 5-1 win.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when Austria were awarded a spot-kick following a clumsy challenge inside the box. Sabitzer stepped up confidently and dispatched the penalty with precision, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give the hosts an early advantage.
Austria began the match on the front foot, pressing high and moving the ball sharply in the opening exchanges. The early goal allowed them to settle into a controlled rhythm, with their midfield dictating possession and limiting Ghana’s opportunities to build momentum.
Ghana, however, responded positively after conceding, gradually growing into the contest. They looked most threatening down the wings, using pace and direct running to test Austria’s defensive line. Despite some promising build-up play, clear-cut chances remained scarce, with the final pass often lacking accuracy.
Austria continued to pose a threat on the counterattack, exploiting spaces left by Ghana as they pushed forward in search of an equaliser. A few half-chances hinted at a second goal, but Ghana’s defence recovered well to keep the deficit at one.
As the halftime whistle blew, Austria’s early efficiency from the penalty spot separated the sides.
Michael Gregoritsch extended the hosts advantage in the 51st minute after quick thinking from Sabitzer to steal possession high up the pitch.
Stefano Posch put the hosts three up just before the hour mark, compounding the Black Stars‘ misery.
However, in a game where Ghana failed to make attacking incursions, skipper Jordan Ayew pulled a goal back for Ghana, sparking hopes of a comeback.
The jubilation were short-lived after Chukwuemeka added a fourth goal to put Austria in the driving seat and send the home supporters into raptures.
Nicolas Seiwald sealed tge result in stoppage time.
Despite the best attempts of Ghana to cut Austria’s lead, Ralf Rangnick’s men proved too strong on a wet night in Vienna.
Ghana let in four goals for the first time since October 2023, where the team lost to USA in an international friendly.
The defeat means Ghana have picked up only one win in their last 11 international outings.
The Black Stars will regroup and face Germany on March 30 in Germany while Austria play South Korea on March 31.
