Ghana has moved significantly closer to securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a commanding 5-0 victory over the Central African Republic at the Ben M’Hamed El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida, Morocco, on Wednesday night.
The Black Stars’ win was powered by goals from Mohammed Salisu, Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Jordan Ayew, and Kamaldeen Sulemana. This result maintains their three-point cushion atop Group I, ahead of Madagascar-who also claimed an away win against Comoros in Abidjan-with only one match remaining. Additionally, Ghana holds a superior goal difference (+16 compared to Madagascar’s +8), positioning them well to start preparations for next year’s tournament in North America.
From the outset, Ghana dominated possession and momentum, breaking the deadlock in the 20th minute when defender Mohammed Salisu rose highest to head in a corner delivered by Mohammed Kudus.
Mohammed Salisu’s aerial prowess gave Ghana an early advantage.
Just four minutes later, another corner, this time taken by Jordan Ayew, nearly resulted in a second goal. Central African Republic’s goalkeeper Dominique Youfeigane was forced into a sharp save to deny Kwasi Sibo’s powerful header.
Ghana had a golden opportunity to extend their lead in the 38th minute when Salisu’s header found Alexander Djiku, but the defender’s shot sailed over the crossbar, leaving the scoreline at 1-0 going into halftime.
In the second half, Ghana squandered a few early chances before Thomas Partey doubled the lead in the 52nd minute. Partey capitalized on a well-crafted setup from Jordan Ayew, firing a deflected shot into the net.
