World Cup (Q): Ghana thrash Central African Republic

The Black Stars of Ghana have qualification for the 2026 World Cup all but locked up following Wednesday’s 5-0 Group I victory over Central African Republic.

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— NEW acc: @CENTERofGOALS (@LucianaWil9942) October 8, 2025

Mohammed Salisu’s powerful header from a Mohammed Kudus corner kick gave the Black Stars the lead in the 21st minute and they never looked back in El Jadida, Morocco. Jordan Ayew set up Thomas Partey in the 52nd minute to put the match away and leave the Group I leaders within a point of confirming their place at the finals next summer in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

Facing an opponent with little to play for, the heavy favorites imposed themselves early on. After coming close to opening the scoring from an earlier corner kick, Salisu made no mistake with a perfect header from Kudus’ service.

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— NEW acc: @CENTERofGOALS (@LucianaWil9942) October 8, 2025

Central African Republic showed some endeavor but potential attacks were snuffed out by the experienced Ghanaian defense led by Salisu and Alexander Djiku. Once Partey doubled the advantage early in the second half, the result was all but sealed. Djiku headed in another Kudus corner before Jordan Ayew and Kamaldeen Sulemana added further goals to complete a lopsided victory.

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— NEW acc: @CENTERofGOALS (@LucianaWil9942) October 8, 2025

The Black Stars finish up their Group I fixtures at home against Comoros on Sunday. With a substantial advantage over second placed Madagascar when it comes to goal difference, even a defeat to Comoros is unlikely to prevent the 2010 quarterfinalists from achieiving direct qualification as Group I winners.

2026 World Cup Qualifying: Updated Group I Table

1. Ghana- 22 points (GD: +16)
2. Madagascar- 19 points (GD: +8)
3. Mali- 15 points
4. Comoros- 15 points
5. Central African Republic- 5 points
6. Chad- 1 point