In a closely contested international friendly played in South Africa, Bafana Bafana secured a narrow 1–0 victory over Ghana’s Black Galaxies at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
The only goal of the match came in the 57th minute from South Africa midfielder Sipho Mbule, whose well-struck effort proved decisive in giving the hosts the win. Despite a spirited performance from the Black Galaxies — composed largely of home-based players — Ghana could not find an equaliser, with efforts hitting the woodwork and being denied by the South African goalkeeper late in the game.
Bafana Bafana Edge Black Galaxies 1–0 in International Friendly in South Africa 3
The match served as part of Bafana Bafana’s final preparations ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, while the Black Galaxies used the fixture as valuable experience ahead of upcoming CHAN qualifiers.
Both coaches acknowledged the competitive nature of the game, with Ghana’s head coach Kassim Mingle describing the friendly as an “eye-opener” and praising his team’s determination despite the result.
The Ghana Black Stars are set to face European giants Germany in an international friendly serving as part of World Cup warm-up preparations, following complications that reportedly blocked Germany’s initial plans to play Ivory Coast.
According to reports from international football circles, Germany had been exploring a warm-up fixture against Ivory Coast, but scheduling issues linked to a recent draw and logistical constraints made the match unfeasible. As a result, Ghana emerged as the preferred alternative, setting up a repeat of one of football’s most memorable World Cup rivalries.
The fixture is expected to provide both teams with a competitive test ahead of major international assignments, with Ghana using the opportunity to assess squad depth, tactical cohesion, and player readiness against elite opposition.
Germany and Ghana share a rich World Cup history, most notably their dramatic encounters in 2006 and 2010, games that remain etched in the memories of football fans worldwide. A new friendly meeting is expected to rekindle that rivalry, even in a non-competitive setting.
Germany to Face Ghana in World Cup Warm-Up After Draw Blocks Ivory Coast Plans 6
For Ghana, the match presents a valuable chance to measure progress under the current technical direction, particularly as the Black Stars continue rebuilding with a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Facing a European powerhouse like Germany offers insight into areas requiring improvement before competitive fixtures resume.
On the German side, the friendly is seen as an opportunity to fine-tune systems, test player combinations, and regain consistency following mixed performances in recent tournaments. Playing an African opponent known for pace and physicality is considered ideal preparation.
Football fans in Ghana have already reacted positively to the news, describing the potential match as a “classic test” and a chance for the Black Stars to reclaim pride on the global stage.
Official confirmation, including the venue and match date, is expected to be announced by the respective football associations in the coming days.
If finalized, the Germany vs Ghana friendly will stand as one of the most anticipated international warm-up matches, drawing global attention ahead of the World Cup.
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