Alexander Djiku was Ghana’s hero on Monday night, scoring the only goal as the Black Stars edged past Mali 1–0 at the Accra Sports Stadium to reclaim top spot in Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The win takes Ghana to 19 points, keeping them firmly in control of the group with just two matches left to play.

Pressure Before Kickoff

Coming into the game, the Black Stars were under serious pressure. Last Thursday’s frustrating 1–1 draw against bottom side Chad had thrown the group wide open. And with Comoros beating the Central African Republic 2–0 on Sunday, Otto Addo’s men knew nothing short of victory would do.

Djiku Delivers

The game started nervously, with Mali’s Eagles — coached by Tom Saintfiet — setting up compact and disciplined. Ghana created little in the first half, their best chance falling to Antoine Semenyo, who misfired after brilliant work from Mohammed Kudus just before the break.

Mali also came close, forcing last-ditch defending from Djiku and Mohammed Salisu to keep the scoreline level.

But just two minutes into the second half, the breakthrough arrived. Jordan Ayew’s corner found Djiku, who bundled the ball home in front of a roaring home crowd. The stadium erupted, and Ghana finally had the cushion they desperately needed.

Holding On

The goal gave Ghana confidence, with Kudus showing his trademark flair and linking up well with Semenyo. Yet, the Black Stars couldn’t put the game to bed. Substitutes Kamaldeen Sulemana, Joseph Paintsil, and Iñaki Williams injected fresh energy, with Paintsil especially lively on the wing.

Still, Mali refused to fold. In a tense finale, they pressed Ghana deep into their half and even appealed for a late penalty after Jonas Adjetey was involved in a contested challenge. The South African referee waved play on — a decision that infuriated the visitors, who confronted him angrily after the final whistle. Security had to step in.

Eyes on the World Cup

Despite the nervy ending, Ghana held firm. The three points move them to 19 and leave them in pole position in Group I. With just two games left — against Chad and the Central African Republic — the Black Stars are edging closer to booking their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

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