Black Stars beat Madagascar 3-0 to boost their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying hopes.
The Stars opened the scoring through a well-taken free kick lifted above the Madagascar defense, allowing Thomas Partey to head home the first goal in the 10th minute.
Madagascar, however, looked threatening and eager to equalise. A long-range effort from Rayan Reveloson in the 23rd minute went wayward, failing to trouble Hearts of Oak’s goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare.
Ghana, despite adopting a low-pressing approach and quick positional play, remained elusive for Madagascar’s midfield. This resulted in Baggio receiving a yellow card in the 25th minute after a strong challenge on Jordan Ayew.
The score remained 1-0 at halftime, with both teams having a fair share of possession. Madagascar, however, looked desperate to find an equalizer.
The second half started with the Black Stars causing all sorts of problems for their opponents.
Mohammed Kudus attempted a shot that went wide, followed by a Jordan Ayew effort that also missed the target.
Despite Ghana’s dominance, Madagascar’s lethal forward, Warren Caddy, tried his best to pull one back, but Ghana’s defense remained resolute.
The Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew combination that gave Ghana the lead in the first half manifested again in the 53rd minute to double the score.
Jordan’s perfect cross from a corner kick was met by the Arsenal midfielder, who powered home a thumping header.
The Black Stars did not relent.
Captain Jordan Ayew showcased skill and sublime play, dribbling past three Madagascar players before delivering a precise ball into the box for Mohammed Kudus, who smashed it into the net in the 58th minute.
Jordan Ayew completed a hat-trick of assists.
At this point, the Black Stars dominated possession, controlling the game heading into the 69th minute.
Ghana made their first substitution in the 71st minute, introducing Iñaki Williams in place of Antoine Semenyo, after Madagascar had made three consecutive substitutions.
Madagascar’s El Hadary Raheriniana attempted to make an impact with a curling shot from the left side of the pitch just outside the 18-yard box, forcing Benjamin Asare into a save in the 74th minute.
With seven minutes left, Ghana maintained a comfortable 3-0 lead against Madagascar.
The game ended with the score unchanged, as the Black Stars secured a commanding victory and topped their World Cup qualifying Group I with a five-point lead.
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