Djiku’s Decisive Strike Sends Ghana Top in World Cup Qualifiers

Defender Alexander Djiku scored the only goal of the match as Ghana’s Black Stars edged past Mali 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday night, strengthening their hold at the top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The win takes Ghana to 19 points, keeping them ahead in a tightly contested group after a shaky 1-1 draw with bottom side Chad last Thursday. With Comoros defeating the Central African Republic 2-0 on Sunday, the pressure was on Ghana to secure maximum points and maintain control of the group.

Coach Otto Addo made four changes to his lineup, handing a debut start to late call-up Kwasi Sibo. Despite a frustrating first half where chances were scarce—Antoine Semenyo wasting the best opportunity after fine work from Mohammed Kudus—Ghana found their breakthrough shortly after the restart.

In the 47th minute, Jordan Ayew’s corner was met by Djiku, who bundled the ball into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures.

Ghana pressed for a second goal, with Kudus and Semenyo combining well, but the Malian defense held firm. Substitutes Kamaldeen Sulemana, Joseph Paintsil, and Iñaki Williams added fresh energy, with Paintsil impressing with his direct runs.

Mali, however, refused to relent, pushing the Black Stars deep in the final minutes. The visitors furiously appealed for a penalty in stoppage time after contact involving Jonas Adjetey, but the referee waved play on—a decision that sparked heated protests at the final whistle.

Security had to escort the match official off the pitch as frustrated Malian players surrounded him.

Despite the tense finish, Ghana’s narrow victory keeps them in a commanding position with two games remaining against Chad and the Central African Republic, as they push towards a place at the 2026 World Cup.