Jordan Ayew scores late to secure Ghana’s win over Mali in 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Jordan Ayew came off the bench to score a dramatic late winner for Ghana as they defeated Mali 2-1 in Bamako on Thursday evening.

This victory moves the Black Stars to joint-top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, marking their first win in six games.

Ghana’s Ernest Nuamah equalized in the second half after Mali had taken the lead before Ayew’s decisive goal in added time clinched the win.

Mali started the match strongly, seeking an early goal, but Ghana’s goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi made several crucial saves, including a notable one in the fifth minute from a left-footed shot by a Malian attacker.

Ghana’s first attempt came in the 16th minute, with Mohammed Kudus’s strike going over the crossbar. The Black Stars gradually gained momentum, creating opportunities, but Kudus and Antoine Semenyo were unable to convert their chances.

Mali opened the scoring just before halftime when Kamory Doubia capitalized on a deflection off Alexander Djiku to give the Eagles the lead. Despite Ghana’s efforts, they went into the break trailing.

Ghana almost equalized immediately after the break, but Semenyo missed Tariq Lamptey’s low cross. However, in the 58th minute, Ernest Nuamah headed home a cross from Salis Abdul Samed to level the score.

Thomas Partey had a chance to win the game for Ghana just before added time, but his one-on-one effort was saved by the Malian goalkeeper. In the final minutes, Ghana pressed for a second goal, and a late strike by Jordan Ayew secured the victory.

This win gives Ghana six points from three games, placing them behind Comoros, who lead the group on goal difference. The Black Stars are set to face the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium in their next match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.