Ghana strengthened their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup with a commanding 3-0 win over Madagascar in Group I of the qualifiers.
Ghana wasted no time asserting their dominance in the World Cup qualifier, opening the scoring in the 10th minute.
A well-placed free kick, lifted over the Madagascar defense, allowed Thomas Partey to rise above his marker and power a header into the net, giving the Black Stars a 1-0 lead.
Despite conceding early, Madagascar looked determined to find an equalizer.
In the 23rd minute, Rayan Reveloson unleashed a long-range shot, but it sailed wide of the target and failed to trouble Ghana’s goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare.
Ghana’s defense, adopting a disciplined low-press strategy, proved difficult for Madagascar to break through. As a result, Baggio was booked in the 25th minute after a heavy challenge on Jordan Ayew.
The first half ended with Ghana holding a 1-0 advantage. Both teams shared possession, but Madagascar appeared more desperate to level the score.
Ghana remained solid at the back, preventing any clear-cut opportunities for their opponents.
The second half began with Ghana continuing to dictate the pace. Mohammed Kudus had an early chance, but his shot went wide. Moments later, Jordan Ayew also failed to find the target with an effort from distance.
Despite these misses, Ghana’s attacking play was causing Madagascar plenty of problems. Meanwhile, Madagascar’s key forward, Warren Caddy, tried to make an impact but was consistently thwarted by Ghana’s resolute defense.
Ghana doubled their advantage in the 53rd minute. Jordan Ayew’s perfect delivery from a corner found Thomas Partey, who powered a header past the Madagascar goalkeeper, extending the lead to 2-0.
Jordan Ayew continued to shine in the 58th minute with a dazzling display of skill.
After dribbling past three Madagascar defenders, Ayew delivered a precise pass into the box for Mohammed Kudus, who made no mistake in firing it into the net. This goal gave Ghana a commanding 3-0 lead, with Ayew registering his third assist of the match.
With the game winding down, Ghana was firmly in control. In the 71st minute, Ghana made their first substitution, bringing on Iñaki Williams for Antoine Semenyo. Madagascar, having already made three changes, tried to generate some pressure.
El Hadary Raheriniana had a chance in the 74th minute with a curling shot from outside the box, but Benjamin Asare was equal to the task, making a strong save to keep the scoreline unchanged.
With the game winding down, Ghana comfortably held onto their 3-0 lead, ensuring a dominant win.
The final whistle confirmed their victory, which saw the Black Stars top Group I in the World Cup qualifiers with a five-point lead, putting them in a strong position for the next stage of qualification.
