Ghana head coach Otto Addo did not hide his disappointment after watching his side throw away two valuable points in a dramatic 1-1 draw with Chad during Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in N’Djamena.
The Black Stars appeared to be cruising toward a narrow but vital victory after Jordan Ayew’s composed finish handed them a first-half advantage at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno. However, the hosts snatched a share of the spoils deep into the contest when Ecua Celestin’s deflected strike stunned the visitors.
World Cup Qualifiers: Ghana beld by Chad after late Celestin thunderbolt
Speaking to the press after the match, Addo lamented his team’s wastefulness in front of goal, insisting the result was entirely avoidable.
“We had a lot of chances, we could have killed the game before, or we must have killed the game before, but we didn’t do it,” he told reporters. “They had one big chance, I think there were some wide shots from Chad, but other than that, there was no big chance, just one deflection in the goal. So yeah, it’s really, really disappointing for us. I want to congratulate Chad for getting the point, for sure.”
A tough outing, but the journey continues. Focus shifts to Monday’s clash with Mali in Accra. 👊🏾#BlackStars | #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/eYhFOovBKW
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) September 4, 2025
The draw leaves Ghana perched at the summit of Group I with 16 points, but the slip-up has given chasing teams renewed hope in the qualification race. Addo will now have to rally his squad quickly as they prepare for a high-stakes clash with Mali on Monday, September 8, at the Accra Sports Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
The Mali encounter is shaping up to be a must-win fixture for Ghana, who are seeking to tighten their grip on a ticket to the global showpiece.
