The Black Stars defeated Madagascar 3-0, boosting their chances of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
The Stars opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a well-placed free kick that rose above the Madagascar defence, allowing Thomas Partey to head home the first goal.
Madagascar, on the other hand, appeared formidable and eager to equalise. Rayan Reveloson’s long-range shot in the 23rd minute was off target and did not trouble Hearts of Oak custodian Benjamin Asare.
Despite Ghana’s low-pressing tactics and quick positional play, Madagascar’s midfield struggled to find them. Baggio received a yellow card in the 25th minute for a violent challenge on Jordan Ayew.
At halftime, the score remained 1-0, with both teams maintaining a fair share of possession. Madagascar, on the other hand, appeared to be in desperate search of an equaliser.
The second half began with the Black Stars causing all sorts of trouble for their opponents.
Mohammed Kudus took a shot that went wide, while Jordan Ayew also missed the target.
Despite Ghana’s dominance, Madagascar’s dangerous forward, Warren Caddy, attempted to bring one back, but Ghana’s defence stood firm.
The Thomas Partey-Jordan Ayew combination that gave Ghana the lead in the first half returned in the 53rd minute to double the score.
Jordan’s exquisite cross from a corner kick was met by the Arsenal midfielder, who slammed in a powerful header.
The Black Stars did not give up.
Captain Jordan Ayew demonstrated talent and superb play by dribbling past three Madagascar opponents and delivering a crisp pass into the box for Mohammed Kudus, who slammed it home in the 58th minute.
Jordan Ayew recorded a hat trick of assists.
At this moment, the Black Stars dominated possession and led the game into the 69th minute.
Ghana made their first substitute in the 71st minute, replacing Antoine Semenyo with Iñaki Williams, following Madagascar’s three consecutive substitutions.
El Hadary Raheriniana of Madagascar attempted to make an impression with a curling shot from the left side of the pitch, just beyond the 18-yard box, forcing Benjamin Asare to make a save in the 74th minute.
With seven minutes remaining, Ghana held a 3-0 lead over Madagascar.
The game ended with the score unaltered, as the Black Stars scored a convincing victory and led their World Cup qualification Group I with a five-point advantage.
