Jordan Ayew came off the bench to score a dramatic winner for Ghana, leading them to a 2-1 victory over Mali in Bamako on Thursday evening.
This crucial win places the Black Stars joint-top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, marking their first win in six games.
The match saw Mali take the initial lead just before halftime.
Kamory Doumbia capitalised on a deflection off Alexander Djiku, putting the Eagles ahead.
Despite Mali’s strong start and early efforts, including notable saves by Ghanaian goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Ghana gradually found their footing.
Ghana’s equalizer came in the 58th minute when Ernest Nuamah headed in a brilliant cross from Salis Abdul Samed.
The game continued with intense efforts from both sides, with Thomas Partey almost securing a win for Ghana before added time, only to be thwarted by Mali’s goalkeeper.
In the dying moments of the match, Jordan Ayew delivered the decisive goal, firing past the Malian defence to secure all three points for the Black Stars.
This victory brings Ghana to six points from three games, trailing behind Comoros only on goal difference.
The Black Stars will next face the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium on the fourth matchday of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.