Ghana took a significant step toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mali in a tense Group I clash. The decisive moment came in the 49th minute, when defender Alexander Djiku rose highest to head home from a precise Jordan Ayew delivery, sending the packed home crowd into raptures.
The Black Stars started the game with intent, dominating possession in the first half but struggling to break down Mali’s disciplined defense. Mali threatened occasionally on the counter, with Kamouri Doumbia forcing a sharp save from Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. However, Ghana’s persistence paid off shortly after the restart, Djiku timing his run perfectly to nod in Ayew’s pinpoint cross.
🤩 What a night in Accra! Thank you for standing with us every step of the way as usual! ❤️
God bless our Homeland Ghana 🇬🇭#BlackStars | #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/mQ4lREQm4u
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) September 9, 2025
From there, Ghana managed the game efficiently, frustrating Mali’s attempts to find an equalizer. Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus anchored midfield and attack respectively, while the defensive pairing of Djiku and Mohammed Salisu held firm against Mali’s late pressure.
The win sees Ghana climb to the top of Group I with 19 points, three ahead of second-placed Madagascar. With two fixtures remaining, an away tie against the Central African Republic on September 6 and a home match against the Comoros on September 13, the Black Stars are within touching distance of securing their ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
