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| Mohammed Kudus, Fatawu celebrates Jordan Ayew's hat-trick |
Ghana demonstrated remarkable resilience by overcoming a one-goal deficit to secure a 4-3 victory against the Central African Republic in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The thrilling match at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, which drew a crowd of approximately 40,000 fans, saw the Black Stars climb to the top of Group I.
The game was highlighted by outstanding performances from Jordan Ayew and Louis Mafouta, both of whom scored hat-tricks. Head coach Otto Addo made three strategic changes to the lineup, introducing Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Ayew, which proved crucial.
Ghana displayed dominance early on and were awarded a penalty in the sixth minute after Abdul Fatawu was fouled inside the box. Ayew confidently converted, giving Ghana an early lead. However, the Central African Republic quickly responded, with Mafouta scoring in the 11th minute, assisted by captain Geoffrey Kondogbia.
Mafouta then put the visitors ahead just before halftime, skillfully navigating through Ghana's defense to score his second goal. Refusing to back down, Ghana equalized in the 60th minute when Ayew scored a remarkable header from a Gideon Mensah cross.
The Black Stars took the lead in the 65th minute when Abdul Fatawu's shot deflected off a defender into the net. Ayew completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, capitalizing on a chaotic goalmouth situation, bringing his goal tally to seven in his last eight national team appearances.
Despite a late free-kick goal from Mafouta, completing his own hat-trick, Ghana held on for the win. The Black Stars now lead Group I with nine points from four games, followed by Comoros and Madagascar, each with six points and one game in hand. Mali, Central African Republic, and Chad trail behind.
Source: cedanewsgh.com
