The Black Stars of Ghana took a giant stride toward securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after dismantling the Central African Republic 5–0 in their Group I qualifier on Wednesday night.
The game, played at the Stade d’Honneur in Meknès, Morocco, saw Ghana deliver one of their most dominant performances in recent memory, with goals from Mohammed Salisu, Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Jordan Ayew, and Kamaldeen Sulemana sealing a resounding victory.
Mohammed Salisu opened the scoring in the 20th minute, rising highest to power home a header from a Mohammed Kudus corner. After the break, captain Thomas Partey doubled the advantage with a well-placed finish following a slick combination with Jordan Ayew.
The Black Stars’ relentless pressure continued as defender Alexander Djiku made it 3–0 midway through the second half, connecting beautifully with another Ayew delivery. Jordan Ayew then turned scorer himself, finishing coolly after a swift Ghanaian counterattack. Kamaldeen Sulemana came off the bench to complete the rout with his first international goal in the 87th minute, assisted by Joseph Paintsil.
The result lifts Ghana to the top of Group I with a three-point cushion over Madagascar, keeping them firmly in control of their qualification destiny. With only one match remaining — a home clash against Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium — the Black Stars need just a draw to confirm their ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Head coach Otto Addo praised his team’s focus and teamwork after the emphatic win, describing the performance as “a statement of intent.” “We played as a unit, showed purpose, and stayed disciplined,” Addo said. “But the job is not finished yet — we must finish strong at home.”
Ghana’s dominant display not only boosts their confidence ahead of the decisive final fixture but also reignites national optimism as the four-time African champions aim for a fifth appearance at football’s biggest stage.
No comment yet, add your voice below!