Ghana’s Black Stars emerged with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Mali in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers to consolidate their lead in Group I of the qualifiers.
After receiving a corner kick from Jordan Ayew in the 49th minute, Alexander Djiku scored an improvised goal to give Ghana the victory. Ghana had some decent opportunities on the counterattack late in the game to extend its lead and avoid a nervy ending to the contest, but wasted them.
Prior to Djiku’s goal, Mali dominated possession in the extremely physical game, with Ghana defending the lead. Poor passing was the main theme for a long time for both teams.
Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was called into action as he was required to save long shots and dangerous crosses from Mali late on in the game.
Beating Mali and drawing 1-1 with Chad puts Ghana on 19 points with a goal difference of +11, three more points than second-ranked Madagascar.
Mali stay in fourth place in the group with 12 points while Comoros slot into third place with 15 points; Comoros take on Ghana at the Accra Sports Stadium in the final round of qualification games on October 11.
Source: myghanadaily
