The Black Stars of Ghana will conclude their September international fixtures with a pivotal clash against Mali in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The four-time African champions were aiming to extend their winning streak but were held to a 1-1 draw in N’Djamena, conceding a late goal to Chad that denied them all three points.
Tonight, the Accra Sports Stadium will host a decisive CAF Group I showdown, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT. With just two matchdays remaining, Ghana lead the group, but a slim one-point margin over Comoros leaves little room for error against a Mali side still vying for a top-two finish.
Ghana entered the September window with momentum, yet the setback in Chad exposed both their strengths and vulnerabilities. Jordan Ayew’s early strike appeared to set the team on course for a routine win, but missed chances from Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus allowed the hosts to snatch a dramatic equalizer in the 89th minute.
Despite the draw, Ghana remain well-placed to qualify for back-to-back World Cups, though sharper finishing and tighter midfield control will be crucial to avoid further late-game disappointments.
Home form has been a solid foundation for the Black Stars, who remain unbeaten in Accra during the qualifiers. Defensively, they have conceded just five goals in seven matches, though the inability to close out games has emerged as a recurring concern.
With players like Kudus and Ayew supporting Semenyo in attack, Ghana possess ample quality; maintaining consistency remains the challenge.
Mali, meanwhile, arrive in Accra with renewed confidence following a 3-0 win over Comoros. Goals from Dorgeles Nene, Kamory Doumbia, and Lassana Coulibaly highlighted the Eagles’ attacking prowess and balance, qualities that have at times eluded them this campaign. Mali have lost just once in seven qualifiers but remain behind due to three draws, though their defensive record—conceding only four goals—makes them a formidable opponent.
With second-placed Comoros only a point behind, a victory in Accra could put Mali firmly back in contention for automatic qualification, making tonight’s encounter a critical test for both sides.
Recent Form
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Ghana (World Cup Qualifying): L W W W W D
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Ghana (All Competitions): L W W L W W
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Mali (World Cup Qualifying): D L L D W W
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Mali (All Competitions): L D W D L W
Team News and Possible Lineups
Ghana may adjust their lineup after the disappointing draw in Chad. Elisha Owusu is suspended, opening the door for Kwasi Sibo to partner Thomas Partey, who missed the last match due to illness. Mohammed Salisu could return to central defence alongside Joseph Aidoo or Alexander Djiku. Kudus and Ayew are expected to lead the attack, with Antoine Semenyo maintaining a key role in the front three.
Mali head to Accra confident and relatively injury-free. Yves Bissouma has been omitted due to a dip in club form, but Lassana Coulibaly and Amadou Haidara provide depth in midfield. Dorgeles Nene will provide width, with Kamory Doumbia retaining his creative duties. At the back, captain Hamari Traoré marshals a disciplined defence that has conceded less than a goal per game.
Ghana (Possible XI): Asare, Mensah, Salisu, Opoku, Djiku; Partey, Sibo, Semenyo, Kudus, Inaki, Ayew
Mali (Possible XI): Diarra, Diakite, Niakate, Dante, Nene; Coulibaly, Dieng, Fofana, Doumbia, Traoré, Sangaré