Ghana’s Black Stars delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on a humid Friday night boost World Cup hopes.
This emphatic win propelled the Black Stars to the top of Group I with 12 points, strengthening their position in the race for a spot at the tournament hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.
The match showcased Ghana’s dominance from the outset, with Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo opening the scoring just two minutes in, capitalizing on a rebound from a chaotic defense.
The Black Stars maintained their momentum, and in the 31st minute, Inaki Williams doubled the lead with a header from a precise cross by Kingsley Schindler. Shortly before halftime, Jordan Ayew converted a penalty in the 36th minute after Semenyo was fouled, making it 3-0.
The second half saw no let-up from Ghana. Monaco’s Mohammed Salisu extended the lead in the 56th minute, heading in a well-placed corner from Ernest Nuamah.
Nuamah then sealed the rout in the 68th minute, finishing off a fine pass from Ayew to complete the 5-0 scoreline. The Black Stars’ attacking prowess was on full display, while debutant goalkeeper Benjamin Asare of Hearts of Oak had little to do, as Chad failed to register a significant threat.
This victory marked a strong start to 2025 for Ghana under coach Otto Addo, following a disappointing 2024 that saw them fail to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The revamped technical team, including new additions like technical advisor Winfried Schäfer and sports psychologist Kris, appeared to instill renewed energy and focus. Key players such as Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, and Mohammed Salisu shone, while debutants like Cercle Brugge’s Lawrence Agyekum also made an impact off the bench.
For Chad, the defeat extended their winless streak in the qualifiers, leaving them anchored at the bottom of Group I with just one point.
Ghana’s next challenge comes quickly, as they travel to Morocco to face Madagascar on Monday, March 24. A win there could further solidify their lead and bring them closer to a fifth World Cup appearance.
The Accra faithfuls left the stadium buzzing, hopeful that this performance signals a turning point for the Black Stars’ qualification campaign.
